Wise words and quaint counsels of Thomas Fuller, selected and arranged, with a short sketch of the autor's life

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PR 3461.F8A6 1892

Wise words and quaint counsels of Thomas

3 1924 013 182 997

The original of tliis book is in
tine Cornell University Library.

There are no known copyright restrictions in
the United States on the use of the text.

http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924013182997

WISE WORDS
AND QUAINT COUNSELS

Of

THOMAS FULLER

JESSOPP

e

Bonbon

HENRY FROWDE

OxFOHD Ukiveesity Press Warehouse

Amen Corner, E.C.

QJw ?)orft

112 Fourth Avenue

Wise Words
and Quaint Counsels

Thomas Fuller

SELECTED AND ARRANGED
WITH A SHORT SKETCH OF THE AUTHOR'S LIFE

AUGUSTUS JESSOPP, D.D.

RECTOR OF SCARNING, NORFOLK

AT THE CLARENDON PRESS
1892

. 1 ■, 1' i, ()()'■- A .T 0G> to

Y yViM./VIU'

PRINTED AT THE CLARENDON PRESS
BY HORACE HART, FRtNTER TO THE UNIVERSITY

PREFACE

THE writings of Thomas Fuller had become almost
forgotten when, at the beginning of the present
century, Coleridge and Charles Lamb set themselves to
claim for them a foremost place in English literature.
Since then Fuller has been ' a name to swear by ' among
all cultured classes ; but the very large surface over which
Fuller's works extend makes it impossible for any but
the favoured few to possess them or to acquire anything
like a familiar acquaintance with them as a whole. The
present volume is intended therefore as a convenient
treasure-house for such as may wish to form some
estimate of Fuller's genius and who have not the time
to give to a general survey of his voluminous and very
unequal writings. Though the Church History and the
JVorthies must live as long as the English language lives,
only oblivion can be expected for much else that Fuller
published in his lifetime. There are books that must die
and be forgotten though they be written by the great-
est and most gifted. The attempt to resuscitate these
and to win for them a perennial acceptance can only

end

vi (preface

end in disappointment for such as would fain put too
high a value upon the obiter dicta or the obiter scripta of
every giant of literature. Meanwhile it is well to rescue
here and there a precious thought from the wrapping
of commonplace in which it has been hidden, just as
men gather grains of gold when the earth or the mire
has been washed away from them.

A. J.

SCARNING :

24 May, 1892.

THE LIFE OF THOMAS FULLER

THOMAS FULLER was the son of a clergyman of the
same name, by Judith, widow of James Payne and
daughter of John Davenant, a citizen of London and a man
of considerable wealth, of which doubtless his daughter
received her share. Fuller's father was a Fellow of Trinity
College, Cambridge, and, on leaving the University, was
presented to the Rectory of Aldwinkle St. Peter, in
Northamptonshire, the next parish to Achurch. Of
Achurch the notorious Robert Browne, the separatist, was
rector during the last forty years of his life, and with him
and his family Fuller was brought into intirdate relations
in boyhood and early manhood.

The fact of Fuller's father having been a Fellow of Trinity
is a sufficient proof that he was a man of more than ordinary
ability. From his mother, too, he must have inherited a
great deal of his intellectual power, and he very early
attracted the special notice of his uncle John Davenant, who
became Lady Margaret Professor of Divinity in Cambridge
the year after Fuller was born, and in 1614 was appointed
Master of Queens' College, then, as now, a position of more
honour than emolument.

Fuller was baptized at Aldwinkle on the 19th June, 1608,
that is, he was born just six months before Milton. He had

few

viii ZU BifC of

few of those advantages of early training which so power-
fully influence a man's career in life. He was never at any
school except the village school of Aldwinkle. What little
scholarly teaching he received was at the hands of his father,
and it was probably at the suggestion of his uncle that he
was sent up to Queens' College, Cambridge, when he had
just completed his thirteenth year (29 June 162 1), and
placed under the tuition of a cousin, Edward Davenant, for
whom his uncle the Master had procured a Fellowship in the
College some time before. Under Edward Davenant the
boy soon did much to retrieve what little loss he may have
suffered in his early teaching, and he took his M.A. degree
on the ist July, 1628, with some credit and not without
being noticed as the youngest Master of Arts in the
University. But he was evidently not up to the higher
standard required for election to a Fellowship. His uncle,
now Bishop Davenant, did his best for him, and wrote strong
letters in his favour. After being twice passed over at
Queens' he migrated to Sidney Sussex College and entered
as a Fellow Commoner. But here again he was disappointed,
and he never became Fellow of his College, though he lived,
like Milton and Brian Walton and Bishop Hall and Henry
Wharton and many another intellectual giant, to win for
himself a high place in his country's literature, from which
his more successful competitors for academical honours
have been for ever shut out.

There is some reason for believingthat Fuller was ordained
by his uncle Bishop Davenant before the canonical age.
Be that as it may, he was certainly presented in 1630 to
the perpetual curacy of St. Benet's, Cambridge, by the
Master and Fellows of Corpus Christi College ; and here he

began

began his life as a working clergyman and soon obtained
some reputation as a preacher. If his own words admit of
such an interpretation — ' I must thankfully confess myself
once a member at large of this house ' — Fuller with this little
piece of preferment obtained the advantage of free access
to the incomparable Library of Antiquarian MSS. which
Archbishop Parker had bequeathed to the College; and
there is abundant evidence that during the next seven
or eight years which he spent in Cambridge he made
diligent use of his opportunities of study.

Like many a man of genius, Fuller made his first venture
as an author by publishing in verse. The book was
entitled 'David's Hainous Sinne, heartie repentance,
heavie punishment.' It is wretched doggerel, and gave no
promise of any literary power on the part of its author. It
was printed in London by T. Cotes, who printed an edition
of Shakespeare's Pericles, and some of the Early Poems of
Francis Quarles, James Shirley, and Beaumont and Fletcher,
together with many more books, some of which have lived
and some are forgotten.

If Fuller offered the little volume to the Cambridge
printers they would have nothing to do with it.

In June 1631 Fuller, being then just twenty-three years
old, was presented by his uncle to the prebend of Netherbury
in ecclesia in the Cathedral Church of Salisbury. It was a
valuable piece of preferment, though robbed of its revenues
during the Commonwealth days ; and he held it till his death.
He appears to have held St. Benet's till July 1633, and next
year he became rector of Broadwindsor, in Dorsetshire. This
living too was given to him by Bishop Davenant. Fuller
spent the next seven years at his benefice, diligently pursuing

his

Z^i Bift of

his studies and apparently refreshing himself by occasional
visits to Cambridge. In June 1635 he went through the
usual exercises and proceeded to the B.D. degree, attended
by some of his parishioners. He married, about the year

1638, a lady whose family name is unknown, but whose
Christian name was Ellen. It is a mere guess which has con-
jectured her to have been one of the Seymours of Dorset.

In 1639 Fuller brought out his first important work, Tke
History of the Holy War. It is a history of the Crusades,
in five books, the last of which he calls the supplement as
containing less of history than comment. It was published
in folio with several illustrations, a curious map, and some
valuable and elaborate chronological tables at the end, and
was printed by Roger Daniel, the Cambridge printer, in

1639. A second edition was issued the next year, and it
continued to be a very popular book till the great wave of
the Rebellion passed over the land. After Fuller's death it ■
shared the fate of much of the literature of the time. With
the Restoration a new and vicious taste came in which could
not relish the strong meat that the great men of a previous
generation were wont to assimilate.

The reception which the Holy War met with, and the
reputation which it immediately made for its author, prob-
ably led to Fuller's being chosen Proctor to Convocation,
next year, for the diocese of Bristol. In this Convocation
too sat Peter Heylin, the Oxford High Churchman, as
Fuller was the Cambridge Puritan. The two divines were
sure to disagree and be opposed to one another. They
were both men of capacious memory, witty, learned and
omnivorous readers; but Heylin was essentially an aca-
demic, with the critical faculty stimulated to the point of

censoriousness,

censoriousness, and that sort of obstinate aggressiveness
which gave an air of personal bitterness to his controversial
writings. , Fuller was rather a man of letters than a mere
scholar, with such a genial and joyous temperament, that
there was an air of gaiety about his very seriousness. He had
no rancour in his composition; and when, years later, Heylin
attacked him waspishly, like the good hater that he was,
Fuller showed his magnanimity by going to his antagonist
in his retirement and blindness at Abingdon, and almost
compelling Heylin to become his friend. Both these men
wrote their reminiscences of this memorable Convocation,
each from his own point of view. It was inevitable that there
should be divergences in the two Reports, and he who would
understand the Church feelings of the time, and the force of
the two currents of opinion that were running, must read
both Reports and harmonise or reconcile them as he can.

Fuller's election as Proctor to Convocation brought him
up to London, and introduced him to a new circle of
acquaintance. He was only thirty-two years of age, and he
had all those personal gifts and intellectual accomplishments
which are sure to make a young man admired and sought
after. Of course he became a popular preacher, and he
thought it worth while to publish a volume of sermon notes
— they are no more — under the title oiJosepK s Party-coloured
Coat, which was printed in London in 1640, but seems to
have been received somewhat coldly.

The book has lately been reprinted and included among
Fuller's Collected Sermons, which were very ably edited
by the late Mr. J. Eglinton Bailey and completed by Mr.
W. E. A. Axon in 1891 ; but it is impossible to speak of it in
heroics. It is Fuller's, and therefore, of course, it contains

some

xu

Zh ^ife of

some good sayings — some shrewd wit, some sparkling sen-
tences — but it leaves an unpleasant impression upon the
reader. The preacher is wonderfully clever and makes
an astonishing number oi points, but the notes are pulpit
fireworks ; though one hopes that while delivering them the
real earnestness of the man may have come out in the living
warmth which he may have breathed into these somewhat
lifeless skeletons. One of Fuller's most successful exploits in
the trick of alliteration is to be found in this book. Speaking
of the effects of Holy Baptism he says '. . . though the
bane be removed the blot doth /-«main, the guilt is remitted,
the blem\%\i retained ; the sting is gone the stam. doth stcrj ;
which if not consented to, cannot ^amn this infant, though
it may ifefile.'

Other instances of whimsical affectations are the fol-
lowing : —

' Woful was the estate of the world when one could not
see God for gods.'

'They are justly to be reproved which lately have
changed all hearty expressions of love into verbal compli-
ments — which etymology is not to be deduced a completione
mentis but a complete mentirii}) '

' The number seven is most remarkable in holy writ and
passeth for the emblem of perfectness or completeness ; as
well it may, consisting of a Unity in the middle, guarded
and attended by a Trinity on either side.'

The Long Parliament met in November 1640, and in
the following April the clergy who had been members of
the Convocation were heavily fined. Fuller's fine was set
at ;^2oo, but it was never exacted. About the same time
his uncle Bishop Davenant died, and a little later a son

was

^^otttae jfttffer xiii

was born to him, who was baptized at Broadwindsor on
the 6th June. This same summer he had the unhappiness
of losing his wife. Then came the ' suppression ' of Epi-
scopacy and of the cathedral chapters, with the confiscation
of the incomes of the bishops and clergy concerned ; and
Fuller, finding himself in straitened circumstances, removed
to London, leaving his people at Broadwindsor in the
charge of a representative who managed to hold the benefice
till the Restoration, while he himself was soon elected by
the Master and Brotherhood of the Savoy Chapel to be
their Lecturer or Chaplain.

From this time (1642) till his death, Fuller must have
depended largely upon his pen for his subsistence. It has
been said that he was the first clergyman who earned a
living by literature. This is certainly not the case. Bishop
Hall's writings sold much more largely than Fuller's ; and
after having been plundered in the most outrageous way.
Hall kept up a certain state in his retirement at Norwich,
and dispensed his charities with a very open hand, though
he had a large family to support. Bishop Hall had a far
larger public who read his books than Fuller could ever
have commanded, and the sale of those books was rapid
and continuous.

Fuller held his Preachership at the Savoy for about a
year, during which he was frequently called upon to preach
on memorable occasions. He was very outspoken in the
pulpit, and made no secret of his loyalty to the King. The
last of these sermons, and the most important, entitled
A Sermon of Reformation, was preached at the Savoy on
the 27th July, 1643, and pubhshed on the 2nd August. It
was probably suggested by Milton's Treatise on the same

subject,

xii Z^t Bift of

some good sayings — some shrewd wit, some sparkling sen-
tences — but it leaves an unpleasant impression upon the
reader. The preacher is wonderfully clever and makes
an astonishing number oi points, but the notes are pulpit
iireworks ; though one hopes that while dehvering them the
real earnestness of the man may have come out in the living
warmth which he may have breathed into these somewhat
lifeless skeletons. One of Fuller's most successful exploits in
the trick of alliteration is to be found in this book. Speaking
of the effects of Holy Baptism he says ' . . . though the
bane be i^«moved the blot doth rexa2!m., the guilt is /remitted,
the blemi^ retained ; the sting is gone the stava. doth sta^ ;
which if not consented to, cannot davan this infant, though
it may dei^e,.'

Other instances of whimsical affectations are the fol-
lowing : —

' Woful was the estate of the world when one could not
see God for gods.'

' They are justly to be reproved which lately have
changed all hearty expressions of love into verbal compli-
ments — which etymology is not to be deduced a completione
mentis but a complete mentiriij) '

' The number seven is most remarkable in holy writ and
passeth for the emblem of perfectness or completeness ; as
well it may, consisting of a Unity in the middle, guarded
and attended by a Trinity on either side.'

The Long Parliament met in November 1640, and in
the following April the clergy who had been members of
the Convocation were heavily fined. Fuller's fine was set
at ;^2oo, but it was never exacted. About the same time
his uncle Bishop Davenant died, and a little later a son

was

^^oma0 jfttffer xiii

was born to him, who was baptized at Broadwindsor on
the 6th June. This same summer he had the unhappiness
of losing his wife. Then came the ' suppression ' of Epi-
scopacy and of the cathedral chapters, with the confiscation
of the incomes of the bishops and clergy concerned ; and
Fuller, finding himself in straitened circumstances, removed
to London, leaving his people at Broadwindsor in the
charge of a representative who managed to hold the benefice
till the Restoration, while he himself was soon elected by
the Master and Brotherhood of the Savoy Chapel to be
their Lecturer or Chaplain.

From this time (1642) till his death, Fuller must have
depended largely upon his pen for his subsistence. It has
been said that he was the first clergyman who earned a
living by literature. This is certainly not the case. Bishop
Hall's writings sold much more largely than Fuller's ; and
after having been plundered in the most outrageous way,
Hall kept up a certain state in his retirement at Norwich,
and dispensed his charities with a very open hand, though
he had a large family to support. Bishop Hall had a far
larger public who read his books than Fuller could ever
have commanded, and the sale of those books was rapid
and continuous.

Fuller held his Preachership at the Savoy for about a
year, during which he was frequently called upon to preach
on memorable occasions. He was very outspoken in the
pulpit, and made no secret of his loyalty to the King. The
last of these sermons, and the most important, entitled
A Sermon of Reformation, was preached at the Savoy on
the 27th July, 1643, and published on the 2nd August. It
was probably suggested by Milton's Treatise on the same

subject,

XIV

ZU ^if^ of

subject, which had appeared two years before. The sermon
is, like all Fuller's pulpit efforts, entirely deficient in anything
approaching eloquence of a lofty character ; but it provoked
an attack from a certain John Saltmarsh, a Cambridge man
and Minister of Hestlerton in Yorkshire. Saltmarsh 's
pamphlet reached Fuller's hands in September ; but before
that time he had been driven out of London by the Parlia-
mentarians, and had, with many others, betaken himself to
Oxford. Before this, however. Fuller had published what
is perhaps his most beautiful and characteristic work. The
Holy and the Profane State. It is divided into five books.
The first two are concerned with the Holy State as it
exhibits itself (i) in the family, (2) the business of life;
the third book lays down certain general rules of conduct
'placed in the middle,' he says, 'that the books on both
sides may reach equally to them because all persons therein
are indifferently concerned'; while the fourth is an attempt
to set forth the duties of those who, as courtiers, judges,
bishops, ambassadors, &c., are called upon to occupy pro-
minent positions in the Commonwealth. The last book, on
the Profane State, is very inferior to the other four, and
consists of a very miscellaneous collection of unpleasant
biographies and scarcely less disagreeable introductory essays,
which bear every sign of having been hurried over to bring
the book up to the necessary number of pages. The volume
was printed at Cambridge in 1642. From no work of
Fuller's have so many brilliant passages been extracted
which it has been thought advisable to insert in the follow-
ing pages.

While Fuller was at Oxford he lodged at Lincoln College,
but his reception among the Royalists was not as cordial as

he

^^oma0 frxUn

XV

he might reasonably have expected ; he felt the expense of
living in the town very burdensome ; he was looked upon
by the extremists as a lukewarm supporter of the cause,
and he gave much offence by a sermon which he preached
before the King at St. Mary's on the loth May, 1644,
being the day of the Public Fast. Before the delivery
of this sermon, however, he had thrown in his lot with Sir
Ralph Hopton, and appears to have attended that ablest of
all the Royalist commanders in the capacity of Chaplain for
at least some months.

In the autumn of this year we find him at Exeter, where
the Queen was delivered of her fourth child, the Princess
Henrietta, and Fuller was appointed Chaplain to the new-
born infant by Charles I. At Exeter he continued to reside
for the next two or three years, working hard at the com-
position of his Worthies, and in the meantime publishing his
Good Thoughts in Bad Times, which were first printed at
Exeter ; though the book was also issued in London and a
third edition was called for the very next year. A little later
he put forth his Life of Andronicus, which in its original, and
much shorter, form had appeared as the closing piece of bio-
graphy in the Profane State. It is the only work of Fuller's
that deserves to be called a very dull and purposeless perform-
ance. Yet for some reason or other it was a very successful
book; no less than four editions were called for in three
years, and it was actually translated into Dutch in 1659.

Before the year 1645 had closed, it was becoming
apparent to all men of any foresight that the Royal cause was
hopeless, and the Parliamentarians began to receive the
adhesion of one after another of the nobility and gentry.
Such men were Edward, second Lord Montagu of Boughton,

Sir

xvi Z^c BiU of

Sir John Danvers of Chelsea, James Hay second Earl of
Carlisle, and Lionel Cranfield third Earl of Middlesex. Fuller
managed to ingratiate himself with all these, and received
substantial assistance from them all during the remainder
of his life. Early in 1646 Lord Montagu offered him
a home in his magnificent mansion at Boughton, and it was
here that he wrote his tract TAe Cause and Cure of a Wounded
Conscience, which he dedicated to the Countess of Rutland,
Lord Montagu's sister. It is a somewhat dreary production
in the form of a dialogue between Timotheus an enquirer
and Philologus his friend and adviser. One paragraph only
— but that a very beautiful one — from this work will be found
in this volume, at p. 178. Shortly afterwards appeared Good
Thoughts in Worse Times, which may be accepted as a
continuation of the Good Thoughts in Bad Times printed
at Exeter in 1645. The book is divided into four parts —
'Personal Meditations,' 'Scriptural Observations,' 'Medita-
tions on the Times,' and ' All kind of Prayers ' — and is rich
in striking passages which indicate that he had felt the
bitterness and pathos of those tumults and tragic events in
which he had been compelled to take a part during the
course of the last five years. Of all Fuller's books this
had the widest circulation, and appears to have been used
as a kind of Devotional Manual by all classes even to the
close of the seventeenth century.

While he was under the protection of Lord Montagu,
Fuller paid frequent visits to London, making friends among
the London merchants, with whom he seems to have been
a great favourite. For a little while he was Lecturer in
Lombard Street, then at St. Clement's, Eastcheap, at
St. Dunstan's in the East, and elsewhere: but it was unsatis-
factory

Z^mae fuiht

XVII

factory work, not unattended with a certain amount of
risk; for Fuller had been for a short time one of the
* Silenced ministers.' Several of Fuller's sermons of this
period were printed ; they are all very scarce, especially the
Sermon of Contentment, which was preached in Sir John
Danvers' chapel at Chelsea, as was the sermon entitled The
Just Man's Funeral, delivered on the occasion of the King's
death in January 1649. About this time Lord Carlisle
presented him with the perpetual curacy of Waltham Abbey,
a benefice, if it deserved to be called by such a name,
which Bishop Hall had accepted some forty years before,
and had held till he was promoted to the Deanery of
Worcester in 16 16. Here Fuller was within an easy
distance of London ; here he had the run of Sion College
Library ; and besides this he had large command of books
which were freely placed at his disposal by Lord Middlesex
and other friends. At no time of his life was his literary
activity more remarkable. In 1650 he published his Pisgah
Sight of Palestine, in folio. The work is a descriptive
geography of Palestine, illustrated by no less than twenty-
eight double-paged maps, and at the time of its publication
was at once accepted as by far the most complete and
serviceable account of the Holy Land which had ever
appeared. The heavy cost of engraving so many maps and
illustrations was borne for the most part by the author's
wealthy friends, but even so the volume was an expensive
one. Nevertheless three editions were issued during Fuller's
lifetime, and to this day it may be consulted with profit by
the student, not to speak of the pleasure which its extra-
ordinary wit and literary brilliancy will aiford to the general
reader. The highest testimonial to the excellence and

b thoroughness

xviii ZU Bifi: of

thoroughness of the Pisgah Sight, as an exhaustive descrip-
tion of the Holy Land and as a comprehensive survey of
its historical geography, was borne by the great master of
rabbinical learning, Dr. Lightfoot. He had himself been
engaged for some years upon a work of the same character,
and had made extensive collections for it ; but, on the
appearance of Fuller's book, he abandoned his own project,
convinced -that there was no need of going over the ground
which had been so well covered by the other.

The Pisgah Sight had been published only a few months
when Fuller brought out a new and very different volume,
entitled Abel Redivivus. This is a very miscellaneous
collection of biographies, numbering ii8 in all, containing
Sthe Jives and deaths of the modern divines, written by
several able and learned ,™en.' It was little better than
a mere bookseller's venture with Fuller's name as a figure-
head. It was published by ' John Stafford dwelling in
Bride's Churchyard, near Fleet Street.' Fuller was the
Editor, and in the Epistle to the Reader he acknowledges to
the authorship of seven of the Lives ; but he implies by an
' &c.' that he wrote some others. Of the rest a few were
contributed by Gataker, Dr. Smith, and Mr. Isaacson ; the
life of Erasmus was written by Dr. Robert Maxwell, Bishop
of Kilmore. Nine tenths of the Lives 'the stationer got
transcribed out of Mr. Holland and other authors.' By
' Mr. Holland ' is meant Henry Holland, son of Philemon
Holland, the learned but luckless bookseller, who for any-
thing we know to the contrary was probably alive at this
time : the transcriptions were made, presumably, from
Holland's now forgotten work, Heroologia Anglica. The
lives of foreign divines appear to have been borrowed from

Melchior

^^otnae §\iiUv xix

Melchior Adam's Vifa Germanorum Theologorum. As a
rule there are certain English verses appended at the end of
each biography ; of these Fuller says that ' the most part of
the poetry was done by Master Quarles, father and son,
sufficiently known for their abilities therein.' Master
Quarles was John Quarles, son of Francis Quarles the
author of the Emblems ; he was at this time a bookseller's
hack. ' He wrote many things merely for maintenance sake '
says Wood; ' he lived as occasion served,' and 'was esteemed
by some a good poet.' Of the son of this man nothing
certain is known. The poetry, as Fuller calls it, has been
characterised by Mr. Nichols as ' arrant doggerel,' and the
expression is not too strong. Of Fuller's share in this volume
not much need be said. The Lives of Cranmer and Foxe the
Martyrologist are far above mediocrity ; but Fuller could not
put pen to paper without writing some sentences which arrest
the reader and astonish him by their brilliancy. For instance,
when summing up Cranraer's character, he exclaims :
' O there is more required to make us valiant, than barely
to be able to call another " coward".' The Abel Redivivus
was not reprinted till twenty-five years ago (1867), nor did
it deserve to be.

Fuller had taken to himself a second wife early in 1651 :
this was Mary, daughter of Thomas Viscount Baltinglass, an
Irish peer who died in 1637, leaving a son Thomas, who
succeeded him, and the daughter, who could have brought
Fuller very little, if any, fortune. Fuller was evidently in
straitened circumstances about this time, and, though still
living at Waltham, was glad enough to officiate as Wednes-
day Lecturer at St. Clement's, Eastcheap, at which church
two years later Dr. — afterwards Bishop — Pearson delivered

b 2 his

XX Z^ iSife of

his sermons on the Creed, which he eventually published in
the form in which we now have them. I'uller published a
series of sermons, twelve in number, on Christ's Temptation,
delivered in the same church in 1652 ; and during the next
five years he printed no less than nine sets of sermons —
among them the very dull and worthless ones professing to
be a Commentary on the Book of Ruth, which he had
preached at Cambridge when he was twenty-three years
old, and now fished up from his desk to turn into money.
Of all these sermons those on the Temptation are the only
ones possessing any merit as pulpit compositions. They are
all pulpit exercises, curiously wanting in fire, or even warmth ;
and bad taste disfigures them painfully. One would have
thought that any man in writing down a prayer to the Most
High would at any rate then have been awed to solemnity
of utterance, dignity of language, and earnestness in supplica-
tion ; but ' Mr. T. F. his Prayer,' composed for use before
the delivery of the sermons on the Temptation, though con-
taining passages that are striking and suggestive, contains
others that can only be described as meanly rhetorical.

In 1655 Fuller at last brought out the great work by
which his name is chiefly remembered. The Church His-
tory of Britain from the birth of Jesus Christ until the year
MDCXL VIII must always remain one of the glories of
English literature. It represents the labour of a life-time
devoted to original research. It is the achievement of
a scholar who had every natural qualification for entering
upon so gigantic a task ; a vigorous constitution, enormous
power of work ; a special aptitude for the subsidiary studies
of heraldry and genealogy ; a peculiar faculty for attracting
to himself such friends as could be of real service to him in

gaining

'Z^om<x0 §\niUv xxi

gaining access to libraries and archives of MSS. public
and private ; a wonderfully quick eye, extraordinary fluency
with his pen, a memory that was incapable of forgetting a
fact, a quotation or any other impression, unbounded
curiosity which kept him always on the alert for every fresh
accession of knowledge, and a genuine delight in the
pursuit of his self-imposed task. In his power of marshalling
his facts and giving to every little incident which he records,
a sparkle of its own, Fuller has no rival in English literature ;
but the very fact of his being the gayest and liveliest— not
to say the most frolicsome — annalist that the world
has ever known has rather detracted from the reputation
which is fairly due to him. To Fuller belongs the honour
of having been the first who set himself to write the
Ecclesiastical History of England since Bede conceived
that grand project nine centuries before; and though his
light was not as ours is, nor his opportunities as ours are,
his Church History can never cease to be consulted as a
recognised authority by those who come after, nor his name
cease to be revered by all who follow his lead in the long
and arduous quest of truth.

The Church History is a magnificent folio of more than
1300 pages, divided into eleven books, with an appendix
constituting the twelfth book which contains the history of
Waltham Abbey and of the University of Cambridge. The
eleventh book ends with the death of Charles I, of which
dreadful event he gives a very pathetic narrative, containing
many curious details that are deeply interesting and very
valuable as contributions to contemporary history by one
who had excellent opportunities of knowing the facts. Of
the ecclesiastical history of Scotland he says little or

nothing.

XXII

ZU &iU of

nothing, and less of that of Ireland. His dislike of the
Scotch was almost as strong as Dr. Johnson's, and his
ignorance of the Irish language rendered it impossible for
him to pursue researches into the past of a country which,
had he had the opportunity, would have possessed for
him a great attraction. The first edition of the Church
History was sold off in a year, and in 1656 a new edition
appeared with some corrections. Three years later Heylin
issued his ' Examen Historicum, or a discovery and ex-
amination of the Mistakes, Falsities, and Defects in some
modern Histories.' It was a waspish and captious attack,
and Fuller had no difficulty in meeting it with an elaborate
rejoinder which he calls his ''Appeal of Injured Innocence. . .
In a controversy betwixt the Animadvertor — Dr. Peter
Heylin and the Author — Thomas Fuller.' This reply has
been called the wittiest of Fuller's works, and, in the
exuberance of the fun, it may be regarded perhaps as the
drollest; but the book is obviously meant to turn Heylin
into ridicule, and the wit is to my mind by no means of
a high order. Take as instances the following ; —

'When an author tells us what he was told by Mr.
Hubbard, Mr. Hubbard by Mr. Barlow, Mr. Barlow by
Mr. Bust, and Mr. Bust by Sir Henry Saville, it brings to
my mind the like pedigree of as true a story, even that of
another, Milo in Sir Philip Sidney, telling the young ladies
an old tale, "which a good old woman told her, which an
old wise man told her, which a great learned clerk told him
and gave it him in writing; and then she had it in her
prayer book " ; as here our author hath found his in the end
of his creed.'

Heylin, objecting to Fuller's introducing the word ' Cister-
cians '

'Z'^Qmae ^uihv xxiii

cians' as a novelty in the place of the more usual phrase
' monks of Cisteaux,' adds : ' And yet our author hath hit
it better in his Cistercians than Ralph Brooke, York herald,
did in his Sister-senses. . . .' Fuller replies, ' What is Ralph
Brooke's sister-senses, brother-senses,, or nonsenses to me ?
This spends time in writing, money in buying,, pains in
reading, makes some angry, none more knowing.' . . .

' The Animadvertor here makes a Professor's Chair ; and
having solemnly set me down therein, puts words into my
mouth, and makes an oration for me, as Moderator in the
present controversy, with a jeer to boot on my memory of the
reverend Dr. Prideaux. But know, there is another chair,
which David calls "the chair of the scornful," and it is
to be feared, that the Animadvertor on this point is too near
sitting down therein.'

' If the Animadvertor loves to eat both corn and chaff,
much good may his diet do him, and let him and horse
feed on their loaf together.'

' See ! he calleth that circumventum, which our dictionaries
English " a flat lie," which I have mitigated into " a flam," as
importing in common discourse " a. falsehood " which hath
more of vanity than mischief therein.'

******

The Appeal was the last book of any importance whicK
Fuller published. The Restoration was approaching, and
the only question which presented itself to the minds of all
men of foresight and influence was how it could be brought
about. In the spring of 1660 there was a general move-
ment of the nobility, and of all those who were worshippers
of the rising sun, to present themselves at the Hague, and to
pay their court to the King. Foremost among these was

Fuller,

xxiv •e^e Bifi. of

Fuller, coining in the same ship with Lord Berkeley, one of
the commissioners of the House of Lords, and accredited too
by Lord Montagu, who committed his little son to the
temporary tutorship of Fuller. Before starting, however,
Fuller had printed his Mixi Contemplations for better
times, astutely dedicated to Lady Monck, from Sion
College. On the King's landing, Fuller at once printed
a Panegyrick on His Majesties Happy Return. It is a
pamphlet in quarto, containing forty-two dreary and turgid
stanzas in rhyme.

The Restoration brought very little to Fuller. He
recovered his living at Broadwindsor, though he did not
again take up his residence there ; he resumed his place as
preacher at the Savoy ; he was re-instated in his prebendal
stall at Salisbury, and he was made D.D. of the University
of Cambridge by Royal mandate. He had many warm
friends among the nobility, and he had deserved well of the
Royal Family and the Royal cause ; but there were many
others who had higher claims. Accordingly more than
a year passed after the return of the King before he was
even appointed 'Chaplain extraordinary to His Majesty.'
He was set down to preach before the Court, and had
actually written his sermon, but it was never delivered.
There is no doubt that he would have been rewarded with
a bishopric, if he had lived a little longer ; but towards the
end of the summer of 1661 he set out on a tour to the
West of England, from which he returned at the beginning
of August, having, it appears, contracted typhoid fever some-
where during his absence. On the 13th of August, being
very ill, he persisted in preaching a wedding sermon at the
Savoy. He had to be lifted out of the pulpit, and was taken

to

C^omft0 ;^ttffet xxv

to his lodgings in Covent Garden, where he died on the i6th
August, in the fifty-fourth year of his age.

Fuller left his great — perhaps his greatest — work, The
History of the Worthies of England, not far from complete
at the time of his death ; but it was not issued from the
press till six months after that event, and it was published
by his son with a dedication to Charles II in February
1662. It had been the occupation of the twenty best years
of his life, and had been looked for by the learned as
a book to be desired, and from which much was to be
expected, for a long time before it was sent to the printers.
The design of the book can hardly be better described than
by its author : —

' England may not unfitly be compared to an house, not
very great, and the several shires may properly be resembled
to the rooms thereof. Now as learned Master Camden and
painful Master Speed, with others, have described the
rooms themselves, so it is our intention, God willirig, to
describe the Furniture of those rooms : such eminent
commodities, which every county doth produce, with the
persons of quaUty bred therein, and some other observables
coincident with the same subject.'

The work was published in a noble folio, uniform with the
Church History, and extends to over 1000 pages. To enter
upon anything like an analytical description of it would be
out of place here, and the more so as the words of a modern
writer may be accepted as no exaggerated estimate of its
value. ' Perused as a book of amusement, there are few in
the English language which a man with the slightest tincture
of love for our early literature can take up with a keener
relish.' Nevertheless, it was never reprinted till 181 1,

though

xivi ZU ^tfe of

though an abridgment, under the title olAnglorum Speculum,
was published in 1684. It is probable that the original
edition was a very large one.

******

When we set ourselves to estimate the value of Fuller's
contributions to English literature, and to arrive at a fair
judgment upon his place as a man of genius, the task proves
a far from easy one.

I. As a divine, or theologian. Fuller was simply nowhere.
His sermons are altogether wanting in even the pretence
of learning ; they are homely, practical, often very much to
the point, and sometimes entertaining : but there is nothing
in them that appeals to the heart and conscience, nothing
that goes below the surface of things, nothing that remotely
resembles enthusiasm. Nor do they contain any evidence
that the preacher had any real interest in the controversies
of the time, or even was at all familiar with the great com-
mentators or Biblical critics of his own age, or of any other.
If one turns from such sermons as his to the wonderful
sermons of Donne (whom, there is some ground for believ-
ing, he must have heard preach), or even of Andrewes or Hall,
one finds oneself lifted into a higher region of speculation,
hermeneutics and spirituality. Fuller was quite content
with his English version of the Scriptures, he never cared to
turn to the original, and there is no evidence that his know-
ledge of Hebrew, or even of Greek, was anything more
than elementary. If he had ever been what the seventeenth-
century divines called a Textualisi, it is hardly conceivable
that a man of his amazing memory should have never been
found quoting or referring to the Greek or Hebrew text, in
an age when preachers were not chary of displaying their

learning

t^omciB ;^MiUv xxvii

learning in the pulpit. So again, it is clear that Fuller
could have had no taste for, and no acquaintance with, the
Scholastic Divinity, which Richard Baxter always spoke of
with respect and recommended young clergymen not to
neglect. Of patristic literature he appears to have been
altogether ignorant. That he was a sincerely devout man
is evident, but even his devotional writings are shallow and
very limited in their range of ideas. He had never had any
of those iierce and fiery conflicts with the powers of evil that
Baxter's writings bear witness to, none of those strong
cryings and tears, those upliftings and despairing agonies
of the soul, which tell of dark remorse and ecstasy, of
aspiration and spiritual rapture. His emotions were always
subordinated to his intellect. In some of his published
prayers he argues the question calmly with the Heavenly
Father, and the fire upon the altar is a flame to lighten his
path, but never to kindle a fire within him that could blaze
and burn and consume. There was no heat there, no
passion, no losing of himself, no capacity of being carried
up into the third heaven, whether in the body he could not
tell, or whether out of the body he could not tell. When
any voice or language came to him which was not im-
mediately intelligible. Fuller was the sort of man who would
at once resort to grammar and dictionary. What he knew,
he knew, what he felt he would not even analyse, it must be
reduced to the form of syllogism. We look in vain for any
record of religious experiences in these thousands of printed
pages.

2. If then, by temperament and for want of early
theological training, it seems pretty evident that Fuller had
not the making of a great divine in him, it is the less to be

regretted

xxvm

ZH Bifc of

regretted that during the best years of his life no career
was open to him in the clerical profession. With his
commanding stature and handsome face, his great ambition,
his diplomatic ability, and his remarkable conversational
powers, he w^as sure to have secured high preferment in the
Church at any other time than under the Commonwealth,
when the Church was disestablished. In that case English
literature would have lost, and the Church would hardly
have gained much. As it was. Fuller followed his natural
bent with all his heart. English history was as yet in the
empirical stage. Even Milton's so-called history is a
wonder of uncritical credulity. But a new school of
research was rising up — a school of hard students and
scholars, who were beginning to look into original sources
with quite other eyes than their predecessors. Such men
as Twysden and Selden and Dugdale, and others like them,
were setting themselves to examine the records of the past
and to hunt up all the available materials of English history
hidden away in public and private depositories; and the
work not only of collecting, but of sifting and weighing
evidence began, and was carried on with a new ardour. Fuller
was one of this new school, whom it is the fashion to speak
of as only antiquaries, in strange forgetfulness of the fact
that the antiquary must always be the historian's guide and
teacher, and that, till his labours have been intelligently
utilised and digested, the historian cannot even begin to
reconstruct a faithful picture of the past. The merit and the
glory of Fuller, however, is that he was much more than
a collector of bare facts. He was the first Englishman who,
with a critical instinct, and a power of accumulating informa-
tion such as few among us have ever equalled, had also that

measure

Z'^Qmci0 jfttffer xxix

measure of constructive genius which breathes life into
the dry bones, and, from the heaps of ruin and rubbish
which the mere collector piles up without discrimination,
can call into being that which had passed out of men's
knowledge, and present us with a suggestive outline of the
growth and the struggles and the life of a people who were
not, and yet who were, as we are.

3. In saying that English history was still in the empiric
stage in Fuller's time, it is implied that we must withhold
from him the claim to be considered a great historian.
Honest, laborious, truthful, candid, and fair-dealing in the
main he always was, but calmly impartial and free from
prejudice he could not have been unless he had been much
more than he actually was in advance of his time. He says
somewhere that he was brought up upon Foxe's Book of
Martyrs ; and the influence of that early training becomes
apparent whenever he has to speak about Popery. Then
he shows himself a good hater. Bale was a great deal too
coarse and virulent for him, but he never learnt to under-
stand the real greatness of the work done by the monastic
orders ; and monks and friars (whom he more than once
confuses, as everybody else did) were to him abomination.
It is true that he sometimes has a word to say in their
defence, and he can speak kindly of some nunneries and even
express his regret that they were all swept away \ but on
such matters he never could break loose from his early

' ' Yea, give me leave to say, if such feminine foundations had still
continued, provided no vow were obtruded upon them (virginity is least
kept when most constrained), haply the weaker sex, besides the avoiding
modern inconveniences, might be heightened to a higher perfection than
hitherto hath been attained.'— C/4»«^ Hist. B. vi. (Brewer), vol. iii.

P- 336-

prejudices.

XXX Zf^t ^ife of

prejudices. He had eyes to see the dark side, and the
dark side only.

4. ^t is as a literary craftsman that Fuller occupies a

unique position. Those priceless jewels of his,

' Which on the stretched forefinger of old Time
Sparkle for ever,'

do not so often owe their value to the thought suggested, or
the profound wisdom of hints thrown out, as to the setting
of the gem. No writer of the English language was so great
a master of those trickeries of speech which are the
essentials of what we call wit. Of mock seriousness, which
we call irony, I remember no single instance in his writings.
This is only another way of saying that Fuller had no
humour. Warburton was right after all, however much the
critics may protest against the name, for Warburton calls him
'Fuller the Jester.' Not that Warburton meant to imply
that Fuller was always frivolous, that his aim was always to
make men laugh; for none knew better than he that
Fuller could be simply serious when it was meet and right
for him so to be ; but that there was an irrepressible fund of
oddity about his utterances and a way of putting things
which was unlike that of other men — a certain mannerism
which the saturnine and gloomy would be likely to take
offence at, and which would shock the sour disputant
horribly in earnest to do battle for a commonplace or a
foolish paradox. Fuller must have always been the terror
of the pompous and the pretentious. He was the Sydney
Smith of the seventeenth century, and he had a great deal
in common with the brilliant Canon of St. Paul's. Like him
he was nobly free from any suspicion of jealousy, spite, or
bitterness, but he was incomparably the other's superior in

wide

^5oma0 ;^ttfPetr xxxi

wide and solid learning. It is noticeable that, except when
he went to the Hague in the train of Lord Berkeley,
Fuller never crossed the Channel. Indeed he never
travelled as far as Scotland, Ireland, or even Wales.
Though his memory was phenomenal, he appears to have
had little or no command of any foreign language, nor any
considerable acquaintance with European literature. On
the other hand, the map of England was to him as an open
book, whose leaves he was always turning over. There was
scarcely an English cathedral which he had not visited ; he
rode on horseback through shire after shire. Palestine he
was content to describe at second hand, but in doing so
he exhibited his wonderful literary skill and his no less
wonderful faculty of digesting and assimilating the labours
of others. But England he knew, as only they can know it
who set out on their journeys well furnished with such lore
as qualifies them to start on a voyage of discovery, and who
are gifted by nature with a geographical eye.

it: * + * * =1=

If in this review of Fuller's life and of his Uterary work
I may seem to some to have rather underestimated the
greatness of a writer whose name is a household word, and
whose enthusiastic admirers have numbered among them
some of the most subtle and some of the most profound
■ of England's critics and thinkers, there will be found in
the pages that follow abundant proofs of the Wit and
Wisdom, which give a never-ending charm to the writings
of Thomas Fuller. In those writings there are still rich
veins of ore to work, or rather, let me say, there are in that
casket precious jewels still to find.

WISE WORDS AND QUAINT COUNSELS

THOMAS FULLER

A. B. C. D.

The Use of the Alphabet

There was, not long since, a devout but ignorant
papist dwelling in Spain. He perceived a necessity of
his own private prayers to God, besides the Pater
Nosters, Ave Marias, Sic. used of course in the Romish
church. But so simple was he, that how to pray he
knew not. Only every morning, humbly bending his
knees, and lifting up his eyes and hands to heaven,
he would deliberately repeat the alphabet. And now,
said he, O good God, put these letters together to spell
syllables, to spell words, to make such sense as may be
most to thy glory and my good.

In these distracted times I know what generals to
pray for. God's glory, truth and peace, his majesty's
honour, privileges of parliament, liberty of subjects, &c.
But when I descend to particulars, when, how, by whom

B I

Thomas
FuUer

(H){0e (^ovbe ana

Thomas
Fuller

I should desire these things to be effected, I may fall to
that poor pious man's A, B, C, D, E, &c.

Good Thoughts: Meditations on Worse Titnes^ xi.

Advice to a Traveller

Let discourse rather be easily drawn, than willingly
flow, from thee, that thou mayest not seem weak to hold
— or desirous to vent — news, but content to gratify thy
friends. Be sparing in reporting improbable truths,
especially to the vulgar, who, instead of informing their
judgments, will suspect thy credit. Disdain their peevish
pride who rail on their native land (whose worst fault
is, that it bred such ungrateful fools), and in all their
discourses prefer foreign countries ; herein showing
themselves of kin to the wild Irish, in loving their nurses
better than their mothers. Holy state, b. lii. c. iv. n.

Ah; Ha!

Ha is the interjection of laughter ; Ah is an interjec-
tion of sorrow. The difference betwixt them is very
small, as consisting only in the transposition of what
is no substantial letter, but a bare aspiration. How
quickly, in the age of a minute, in the very turning of
a breath, is our mirth changed to mourning !

Good Thoughts in Bad Times : Mixed Contemplations, xiv.

All afore

There are in our age a generation of people who are
the best of prophets, and worst of historians ; Daniel

and

Ouainf Cottn0ef0

and the Revelation are as easy to them as the ten com-
mandments and the Lord's prayer : they pretend exactly
to know the time of Christ's actual reign on earth, of
the ruin~ of the Romish antichrist, yea, of the day of
judgment itself. But these oracles are struck quite
dumb, if demanded anything concerning the time past ;
about the coming of the children of Israel out of Egypt
and Babylon, the original increase and ruin of the four
monarchies ; of these and the like they can give no more
account than the child in the cradle. They are all for
things to come, but have gotten (through a great cold of
ignorance) such a crick in their neck, they cannot look
backward on what was behind them.

Good Thoughts : Mixed Contemp. on Better Times^ Pt. II. i.

Almsgiving

Some men there be whose charitable deeds are as rare
as an eclipse, or a Blazing- Star : these men deserve to
be pardoned for their pious deeds, they are so seldom

guilty of them. Colt. Serm. : Comment, on Ruth, ii. v. 20.

I HAVE observed some at the church-door cast in six-
pence with such ostentation, that it rebounded from the
bottom, and rung against both the sides of the bason
(so that the same piece of silver was the alms and the
giver's trumpet) ; whilst others have dropped down silent
five shiUings without any noise.

Worthies : Bristol Benefactors.

B 2 Alms-houses

Thomas
Fuller

4

(XOiee (ps)ot:60 anb

Thomas
Fuller

Alms-houses

Because we live in an age wherein men begin to be
out of charity with charity itself; and there be many
covetous (not to say sacrilegious) people, whose fingers
itch to be nimming the patrimony of the poor ; we will
here present the cavils of this against the charity of
former ages herein.

Cavil I . — Shew us the foundation of such structures
in Scripture, either in the Old or New Testament. As
for the place with five porches, wherein 'the impotent
poor lay,' near the Pool of Bethesda, it was of another
nature. Alms-houses therefore, not being jure divino,
may lawfully be abolished.

Answer. — The constitution of the Jewish was far
different from our Enghsh commonwealth, wherein every
one originally was a freeholder of some proportion of
land, which, though alienated, reverted to the owner at
the year of Jubilee. There needs not an express or par-
ticular precept for all our actions ; that general one, ' He
that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord,' is
bottom broad enough to build more alms-houses on,
than all ages will afford. Besides this precept, we have
the practice of the primitive Christians in the time of
the apostles, parting with the propriety of all their estate ;
and well then may we appropriate a part of ours, for the
relief of the poor.

Cavil 2. — The builders of them for the most part
have been people formerly guilty of oppression, who,
having lived like wolves, turn lambs on their death beds,
and part with their fleece to people in want. Having

ground

Ouainf Coutt0ef0

'5

ground the faces of the poor, they give the toll thereof
to build an alms-house, though too little ^o hold half the
beggars which they have made.

Answer. — The aspersion cannot be fastened on many
founders ; so free from the same, that malice may sooner
break her own teeth and jaws too, than make impression
on their reputation. But grant the charge true in this
sense, beatum estfuisse, ' blessed are they that have been
bad ; ' — ' And such were some of you.' I.,et not envious
man repine at that whereat the blessed angels rejoice,
the conversion of sinners, and their testifying thereof by
such public expressions.

Cavil 7. — Hospitals generally have the rickets, whose
heads, their masters, grow over great and rich, whilst
their poor bodies pine away and consume.

Answer. — Surely there is some other cure for a
ricketish body, than to kill it ; viz. by opening obstruc-
tions, and deriving the nutriment to all parts of the
same. But enough of this unwelcome subject, whereof
what is spoken is not to put new cavils into the heads of
any, but to pluck old ones out of the hearts of too many,
who have entertained them. If these our answers seem
not satisfactory to any, know, that as a left-handed man
hath great odds in fencing against one that is right-
handed ; so in controversies of this kind, cavillers, with
their sinister inferences from men's frailties, have a vast
advantage over those who are of candid and ingenuous
dispositions.

Many faults must be confessed in such foundations,
which for the future may be amended.

But, grant corruptions should continue in such founda-
tions,

Thomas
Fuller

(K)i0e (^ovb0 anb

Thomas
FuUer

tions, it is not plea enough for their abolition. If the
sentence of condemnation was pronounced on those who
saw Christ naked, and would not clothe him ; how heavy
a doom would fall on such who found Christ clothed,
and stript him in his poor members of endowments given
to their maintenance ! ivortkies: c. xi.

Anger

Be not mortally angry with any for a venial fault. — He
will make a strange combustion in the state of his soul,
who, at the landing of every cock-boat, sets the beacons
on fire. To be angry for every toy, debases the worth of
thy anger : for he who will be angry for any thing, will be
angry for nothing. Holy state, B. iii. c. viii. .=.

Antioch

Hamah, the city which gave the name to this country,
was afterwards called Antiochia. Seven and twenty
cities are said to be of the same name ; for, several
Antiochuses being successively kings of Syria, stocked
their dominions with many cities after their names, as
being either built, beautified, strengthened, or enlarged by
them or their favourites. But it matters not how many
younger brethren there be of the same family, as long
as our Antioch is the heir, and, though not in age, in
honour to be preferred before all the rest. Here the
professors of the gospel — formerly termed believers for
their faith, sometimes brethren for their love, saints for
their holiness, disciples for their knowledge — were, for
all these, first called Christians (Acts xi. 26). Probably,
when many of all nations believed, the name Christian

was

Ouaitt^ Cotttt0ef0

was given to them to bury the difference betwixt Jews
and Gentiles (thus England and Scotland happily joined
in Great Britain), which two names, though remaining
afterwards, were used as terms of civil difference, not
odious distinction. Had this happened at Rome, how
would the tide of Tiber have swollen above all his
bounds and banks at the conceit that in her city religion
itself was christened? But this Antioch hath still more
to brag of— the chair of St. Peter, wherein he sate
patriarch many years before his removal to Rome ; and,
therefore, no wonder if Antioch grudge to give Rome
the superiority. Why should not that place be the
prime which was the first? Besides, St. Peter was
honoured at Antioch, murdered at Rome. And why
should that city receive most credit by him, which
used most cruelty unto him ? But let ecclesiastical
heralds deduce the pedigree and marshal the prece-
dency of these churches, we will only add, that this
Pharisaical taking of the upper hand hath in all ages
hindered the giving of the right hand of Christian fel-
lowship. ■ Pisgah Sigit, B. iv. C. i. 27.

Antiquaries

Some report, that the toad, before her death, sucks
up, if not prevented with sudden surprisal, the precious
stone (as yet but jelly) in her head, grudging mankind
the good thereof. Such generally the envy of anti-
quaries, preferring that their rarities should die with
them, and be buried in their graves, rather than others
receive any benefit thereby.

CA, Hist. B. iL S. 7, Dedication.

The

Thomas
Fuller

(^i0e (5S)or60 (xnb

Thomas
Fuller

The true Church Antiquary

He is not peremptory, but conjectural, in doubtful
matters. Not forcing others to his own opinion, but
leaving them to their own liberty; not filling up all
with his own conjectures, to leave no room for other
men; nor tramples he on their credits, if in them he
finds slips and mistakes. For here our souls have but
one eye (the apostle saith, ' We know but in part ') ;
be not proud, if that chance to come athwart thy seeing
side which meets with the blind side of another.

He thankfully acknowledgeth those by whom he hath
profited. Base-natured they, who, when they have
quenched their own thirst, stop up, at least muddy, the
fountain. But our antiquary, if he be not the first
founder of a commendable conceit, contents himself
to be a benefactor to it in clearing and adorning it.

He affects not fanciful singularity in his behaviour.
Nor cares to have a proper mark, in writing of words, to
disguise some peculiar letter from the ordinary character.
Others, for -fear travellers should take no notice that skill
in antiquity dwells in such an head, hang out an antique
hat for the sign, or use some obsolete garb in their gar-
ments, gestures, or discourse.

He doth not so adore the ancients as to despise the
moderns. Grant them but dwarfs, yet stand they on
giants' shoulders, and may see the further. Sure, as
stout champions of truth follow in the rear, as ever
marched in the front. Besides, as one excellently ob-
serves, Antiquitas saculi juventus mundi. ' These times
are the ancient times, when the world is ancient ; ' and

not

Quaint Couneef©

not those which we count ancient ordine retrogrado, ' by
a computation backwards from ourselves.'

Hoki state, B. ii. C. 6.

Love of Approbation

He must be deaf, indeed, who hears not that spoken
which he desires. Hoiy state, b. v. c. 5.

He must rise early, yea, not at all go to bed, who will
have every one's good word. Holy War, b. iv. c. m.

Arguing from Scripture

A REVEREND Doctor in Cambridge, and afterwards
bishop of Salisbury, was troubled at his small living at
Hogginton, with a peremptory Anabaptist, who plainly
told him : ' It goes against my conscience to pay you
tithes, except you can show me a place of Scripture
whereby they are due unto you.' The Doctor returned :
' Why should it not go as much against my conscience,
that you should enjoy your nine parts, for which you can
show no place of Scripture?' To whom the other re-
joined : ' But I have, for my land, deeds and evidences
from my fathers, who purchased and were peaceably
possessed thereof by the laws of the land.' ' The same
is my title,' saith the Doctor; 'tithes being confirmed
unto me by many statutes of the land, time out of mind.'
Thus he drave that nail, not which was of the strongest
metal or sharpest point, but which would go best for the
present. It was argumentum ad hominem, 'fittest for
the person he was to meddle with;' who afterwards

peaceably

Thomas
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lO

(S)i0e (^otbe anb

Thomas
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peaceably paid his tithes unto him. Had the Doctor
engaged in Scripture argument, though never so preg-
nant and pertinent, it had been endless to dispute with
him who made clamour the end of his dispute, whose
obstinacy and ignorance made him uncapable of soUd
reason; and therefore the worse the argument, the better
for his apprehension. c*. /fist. b. ii. s. iv. 12.

Spanish Armada

Now began that fatal year generally foretold that it
would be wonderful ; as it proved no less. Whence the
astrologers fetched their intelligence hereof, — whether
from heaven or hell, from other stars or from Lucifer
alone, — is uncertain. This is most sure, that this pre-
diction, though hitting the mark, yet missed their
meaning, who both first reported and most believed it.
Out comes their invincible navy and army, perfectly
appointed for both elements, water and land, to sail and
march complete in all warlike equipage ; so that for-
merly, with far less provision, they had conquered
another new world. Mighty was the bulk of their ships,
the sea seeming to groan under them, (being a burden
to it as they went, and to themselves before they re-
turned,) with all manner of artillery, prodigious in num-
ber and greatness ; so that the report of their guns do
still and ought ever to sound in the ears of the English
not to fright them with any terror, but to fill them with
deserved thankfulness.

It is said of Sennacherib, coming against Jerusalem
with his numerous army, ' By the way that he came shall
he return, and shall not come into this city, saith the

Lord,'

Oudinf Cottn0ef0

1 1

Lord,' 2 Kings xix. 33. As the latter part of this
threatening was verified here, no Spaniard setting foot
on English ground under other notion than a prisoner ;
so God did not them the honour to return the same
way, who coming by south-east, a way they knew, went
back by south-west, a way they sought, chased by our
ships past the fifty-seventh degree of northern latitude,
then and there left to be pursued after by hunger and
cold. Thus, having tasted the English valour in con-
quering them, the Scotch constancy in not relieving
them, the Irish cruelty in barbarous butchering them,
the small reversion of this great navy which came home
might be looked upon by religious eyes, as relics, not
for the adoration but instruction of their nation here-
after, not to account any thing invincible which is less
than infinite.

Such as lose themselves by looking on second causes
impute the Spanish ill success, partly to the prince of
Parma, who either mind-bound or wind-bound, staying
himself, or stopped by the Hollander, would or could
not come to their seasonable succour; and partly to
the duke of Medina's want of commission to fight with
the English, (save on the defensive,) till joined with
Parma. Thus, when God will have a design defeated,
amidst the plenty, yea, superfluity, of all imaginable
necessaries, some unsuspected one shall be wanting to
frustrate all the rest. We will not mention (save in due
distance of helps) the industry and loyalty of the lord
Howard, admiral, the valour of our captains, the skill of
our pilots, the activity of our ships ; but assign all to the
goodness of God, as queen Elizabeth did. Leave we

her

Thomas
FnUer

lO

(^iet (^ovb0 Anb

Thomas
Fuller

peaceably paid his tithes unto him. Had the Doctor
engaged in Scripture argument, though never so preg-
nant and pertinent, it had been endless to dispute with
him who made clamour the end of his dispute, whose
obstinacy and ignorance made him uncapable of solid
reason; and therefore the worse the argument, the better
for his apprehension. ck. Hut. b. ii. s. iv. 12.

Spanish Armada

Now began that fatal year generally foretold that it
would be wonderful ; as it proved no less. Whence the
astrologers fetched their intelligence hereof, — whether
from heaven or hell, from other stars or from Lucifer
alone, — is uncertain. This is most sure, that this pre-
diction, though hitting the mark, yet missed their
meaning, who both first reported and most believed it.
Out comes their invincible navy and army, perfectly
appointed for both elements, water and land, to sail and
march complete in all warlike equipage; so that for-
merly, with far less provision, they had conquered
another new world. Mighty was the bulk of their ships,
the sea seeming to groan under them, (being a burden
to it as they went, and to themselves before they re-
turned,) with all manner of artillery, prodigious in num-
ber and greatness ; so that the report of their guns do
still and ought ever to sound in the ears of the English
not to fright them with any terror, but to fill them with
deserved thankfulness.

It is said of Sennacherib, coming against Jerusalem
with his numerous army, ' By the way that he came shall
he return, and shall not come into this city, saith the

Lord,'

Cuainf Cottn0ef0

1 1

Lord,' 2 Kings xix. 33. As the latter part of this
threatening was verified here, no Spaniard setting foot
on EngHsh ground under other notion than a prisoner ;
so God did not them the honour to return the same
way, who coming by south-east, a way they knew, went
back by south-west, a way they sought, chased by our
ships past the fifty-seventh degree of northern latitude,
then and there left to be pursued after by hunger and
cold. Thus, having tasted the English valour in con-
quering them, the Scotch constancy in not relieving
them, the Irish cruelty in barbarous butchering them,
the small reversion of this great navy which came home
might be looked upon by religious eyes, as relics, not
for the adoration but instruction of their nation here-
after, not to account any thing invincible which is less
than infinite.

Such as lose themselves by looking on second causes
impute the Spanish ill success, partly to the prince of
Parma, who either mind-bound or wind-bound, staying
himself, or stopped by the Hollander, would or could
not come to their seasonable succour; and partly to
the duke of Medina's want of commission to fight with
the English, (save on the defensive,) till joined with
Parma. Thus, when God will have a design defeated,
amidst the plenty, yea, superfluity, of all imaginable
necessaries, some unsuspected one shall be wanting to
frustrate all the rest. We will not mention (save in due
distance of helps) the industry and loyalty of the lord
Howard, admiral, the valour of our captains, the skill of
our pilots, the activity of our ships ; but assign all to the
goodness of God, as queen Elizabeth did. Leave we

her

Thomas
Fuller

12

(^(0e (^ov^e anb

Thomas
Fuller

her in the choir of St. Paul's church, devoutly on her
knees, with the rest of her nobles in the same humble
posture, returning their unfeigned thanks to the God and
Giver of all victory ; whilst, going abroad, we shall find
some of her subjects worse employed, — in implacable
enmity about ecclesiastical discipline one against an-
other. And let not the mentioning of this deliverance
be censured as a deviation from the ' Church History of
Britain;' silence thereof being a sin. For had the
design taken effect, neither protestant church in Britain
had remained, nor history thereof been made at this
present. a. Hist. b. ix. s. vii. 14.

The Thirty-nine Articles

Hence some have unjustly taxed the composers for
too much favour extended in their large expressions,
clean through the contexture of these Articles, which
should have tied men's consciences up closer in more
strict and particularizing propositions ; which, indeed,
proceeded from their commendable moderation : chil-
dren's clothes ought to be made of the biggest, because
afterwards their bodies will grow up to their garments.
Thus, the Articles of this English Protestant Church, in
the infancy thereof, they thought good to draw up in
general terms, foreseeing that posterity would grow up
to fill the same. I mean, these holy men did prudently
pre-discover, that differences in judgments would un-
avoidably happen in the church, and were loath to
unchurch any, and drive them off from an ecclesiastical
communion, for such petty differences; which made
them pen the Articles in comprehensive words to take

Quaint tovinede

13

in all, who, diifering in the branches, meet in the root,
of the same religion.

Indeed, most of them had formerly been sufferers
themselves, and cannot be said, in compiUng these
Articles, (an acceptable service, no doubt,) to offer to
God what cost them nothing ; some having paid im-
prisonment — others, exile — all, losses in their estates —
for this their experimental knowledge in religion ; which
made them the more merciful and tender in stating
those points, seeing such who have been most patient in
bearing, will be most pitiful in burdening the consciences
of others.

It is observable, these Articles came forth much about
the time wherein the Decrees of the Council of Trent
were published; truth and falsehood starting in some
sort both together, though the former will surely carry
away the victory at long running. Many of which
Decrees begin with lying, and all conclude with cursing,
— thundering anathemas against all dissenters : whilst
these our Articles, like the still voice, only plainly
express the positive truth. a. Nisi. b. ix. s. i. 51.

'As it was'

Some alive will be deposed for the truth of this strange
accident, though I forbear the naming of place or persons.

A careless maid, which attended a gentleman's child,
fell asleep whilst the rest of the family were at church ;
an ape, taking the child out of the cradle, carried it to
the roof of the house, and there (according to his rude
manner) fell a dancing and dandling thereof, down head,
up heels, as it happened.

The

Thomas
Fuller

12

(K)t0e (^otbe anb

Thomas
Fuller

her in the choir of St. Paul's church, devoutly on her
knees, with the rest of her nobles in the same humble
posture, returning their unfeigned thanks to the God and
Giver of all victory ; whilst, going abroad, we shall find
some of her subjects worse employed, — in implacable
enmity about ecclesiastical discipline one against an-
other. And let not the mentioning of this deliverance
be censured as a deviation from the ' Church History of
Britain;' silence thereof being a sin. For had the
design taken effect, neither protestant church in Britain
had remained, nor history thereof been made at this
present. o. Hist. b. Ix. s. vH. 14.

The Thirty-nine Articles

Hence some have unjustly taxed the composers for
too much favour extended in their large expressions,
clean through the contexture of these Articles, which
should have tied men's consciences up closer in more
strict and particularizing propositions ; which, indeed,
proceeded from their commendable moderation : chil-
dren's clothes ought to be made of the biggest, because
afterwards their bodies will grow up to their garments.
Thus, the Articles of this English Protestant Church, in
the infancy thereof, they thought good to draw up in
general terms, foreseeing that posterity would grow up
to fill the same. I mean, these holy men did prudently
pre-discover, that differences in judgments would un-
avoidably happen in the church, and were loath to
un-church any, and drive them off from an ecclesiastical
communion, for such petty differences; which made
them pen the Articles in comprehensive words to take

Quaint CovinetSe

13

in all, who, differing in the branches, meet in the root,
of the same religion.

Indeed, most of them had formerly been sufferers
themselves, and cannot be said, in compiling these
Articles, (an acceptable service, no doubt,) to offer to
God what cost them nothing; some having paid im-
prisonment — others, exile — all, losses in their estates —
for this their experimental knowledge in religion ; which
made them the more merciful and tender in stating
those points, seeing such who have been most patient in
bearing, will be most pitiful in burdening the consciences
of others.

It is observable, these Articles came forth much about
the time wherein the Decrees of the Council of Trent
were published; truth and falsehood starting in some
sort both together, though the former will surely carry
away the victory at long running. Many of which
Decrees begin with lying, and all conclude with cursing,
— thundering anathemas against all dissenters : whilst
these our Articles, like the still voice, only plainly
express the positive truth. a. Hist. n. ix. s. i. 51.

'As it was'

Some alive will be deposed for the truth of this strange
accident, though I forbear the naming of place or persons.

A careless maid, which attended a gentleman's child,
fell asleep whilst the rest of the family were at church ;
an ape, taking the child out of the cradle, carried it to
the roof of the house, and there (according to his rude
manner) fell a dancing and dandling thereof, down head,
up heels, as it happened.

The

Thomas
Fuller

14

(Wiei. (Wotbe anb

Thomas
Fuller

The father of the child, returning with his family from
the church, commented with his own eyes on his child's
sad condition. Bemoan he might, help it he could not.
Dangerous to shoot the ape where the bullet might hit
the babe ; all fall to their prayers as their last and best
refuge, that the innocent child (whose precipice they
suspected) might be preserved.

But when the ape was well wearied with its own
activity, he fairly went down, and formally laid the
child where he found it, in the cradle.

Fanatics have pleased their fancies these late years
with turning and tossing and tumbling of religion, up-
ward and downward, and backward and forward, they
have cast and contrived it into a hundred antic postures
of their own imagining. However, it is now to be hoped,
that after they have tired themselves out with doing
of nothing, but only trying and tampering this and that
way to no purpose, they may at last return and leave
religion in the same condition wherein they found it.

Gnad TlwugUs: Mixed Contemp. on Better Times, Pt. ii. 46.

Aspirations

How large houses do they build in London on little
ground! Revenging themselves on the narrowness of
their room with store of stories. Excellent arithmetic !
from the root of one floor to multiply so many chambers.
And though painful the climbing up, pleasant the staying
there, the higher the healthfuUer, with clearer light and
sweeter air.

Small are my means on earth. May I mount my soul
the higher in heavenly meditations, relying on divine

providence ;

Ouainf Cotttteefe

15

providence; he that fed many thousands with five
loaves, may feed me and mine with the fifth part of
that one loaf, that once all mine. Higher, my soul !
higher ! In bodily buildings, commonly the garrets are
most empty, but my mind, the higher mounted, will be
the better furnished. Let perseverance to death be my
uppermost chamber, the roof of which grace is the pave-
ment of glory. Gocd Thoughts in Worse Times: Occ. Med. 2.

Beauty of Situation

A PLEASANT prospect is to be respected. A medley
view, such as of water and land at Greenwich, best
entertains the eyes, refreshing the wearied beholder with
exchange of objects. Yet I know a more profitable
prospect, — where the owner can only see his own land

round about. Holy state, B. iii. C. vii.

Better and Best

I WELL knew that wealthy man, who, being a great
improver of ground, was wont to say, 'that he would
never come into that place which might not be made
better;' on the same token, that one tartly returned,
' that then he would never go to heaven, for that place
was at the best.' But the truth is, fertilizing of barren
ground may be termed a charitable curiosity employing
many poor people therein. WoHhies: WaUs. Buildings.

The best Bedmaker

When a good man is ill at ease, God promiseth to
make all his bed in his sickness. Pillow, bolster, head,

feet,

Thomas
Fuller

i6

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Thomas
Fuller

feet, sides, all his bed. Surely that God who made him,
knows so well his measure and temper, as to make his
bed to please him. Herein his art is excellent, not fit-
ting the bed to the person, but the person to the bed,
infusing patience into him.

Gooii Thoughts m Worse Times : Scrip. Obs. -zi.

A Bishop Hater

Indeed, so great is his antipathy against episcopacy,
that if a seraphim himself should be a bishop, he would
either find or make some sick feathers in his wings.

Ch. Hist. B. V. S a. 43.

Black for Mourning

Black is conceived by Arias Montanus to be the
general wearing of mourners, chiefly grounding it on
David's words, ' I bowed down heavily as one that
mourneth for his mother' (Psalm xxxv. 14); the Hebrew
is ininti' "nip, qdder shahkoihl, incurvabam atratus, ' I
bowed down in black.' However, I conceive this black-
ness no superinduction of a dark dye on David's clothes,
but rather a dirty hue or soil contracted on his white
garments, from neglect of washing them {vesfes potius
sordidcR quam nigra, as we say, mourning shirts), it
being customary for men in sadness to spare the pains of
their laundresses, with Mephibosheth, who, when David
was driven from Jerusalem, during his absence, washed
not his clothes from the day the king departed until he
came again in peace (2 Sam. xix. 24).

Pisgak Sight, B. iv. C. vi. 4.

Superfluity

Quaint Couneef©

17

Superfluity of Books

When the author of an idle and imperfect book endeth
with a catera desiderantur, one altered it non desideran-
tur, sed desunt. Indeed they were not, though wanting,
wanted ; the world having no need of them ; many books
being like King Joram, who lived not being desired : yea,
the press beginneth to be an oppression of the land,
such the burden of needless books therein.

Worthies: Chap. a.

Some will say, the charge may most justly be brought
against yourself, who have loaded the land with more
books than any of your age. To this I confess my fault,
and promise amendment, that, God willing, hereafter I
will never print book in the English tongue, but what
shall tend directly to divinity. Worthies.- chap.*.

Books falsely attributed

As for those spurious tracts, which monks in after-ages
set out under these worthy men's names, they are no
more to be accounted the true oflFspring of these learned
saints, than that common manna, ordinarily sold in
apothecaries' shops, is the self-same with that angels'
food which fell down from heaven, and feasted the Is-
raehtes. ch. Hist. b. i. s. 6. 13.

Book Worms

Some men live like moths in libraries, not being better
for the books, but the books the worse for them, which

they only soil with their fingers. worthies: Hants. Writers.

c Bread

Thomas
FuUer

]8

(Wi0t ^otr50 <in&

Thomas
Fuller

Bread

Bread is a dish in every course : without this can be
no feast, with this can be no famine. sutk, c. ^. 6.

Breeding better than birth

It graceth a gentleman of low descent and high desert,
when he will own the meanness of his parentage. How
ridiculous is it when many men brag, that their families
are more ancient than the moon, which, all know, are
later than the star which, some seventy years since, shined
in Cassiopeia. But if he be generously born, see how
his parents breed him. /foij, state, b. ii. c. xxv. 2.

Brothers

The Elder Brother
The elder brother is one who made haste to come
into the world, to bring his parents the first news of
male-posterity ; and is well rewarded for his tidings.

The Younger Brother
Some account him the better gentleman of the two,
because son to the more ancient gentleman ; wherein his
elder brother can give him the hearing, and a smile into

the bargain. Holy state, B. i. C. xiv. xv.

Bull-baiting

It seems that both the gentry and country folk in this
shire are much affected with that pastime, though some
scruple the lawfulness thereof, i. Man must not be a
barrater, to set the creatures at variance. 2. He can
take no true delight in their antipathy, which was the

effect

Ottdin^ tounedtf

19

effect of his sin. 3. Man's charter of dominion empowers
him to be a prince, but no tyrant, over the creatures.
4. Though brute beasts are made to be destroyed, they
are not made to be tormented. Others rejoin, that God
gave us the creatures as well for our pleasure as necessity ;
that some nice consciences, that scruple the baiting of
bulls, will worry men with their vexatious cruelties. All
that I dare interpose is this, that the tough flesh of bulls
is not only made more tender by baiting, but also thereby
it is discoloured from ox-beef, that the buyer be not

deceived. Wm-thies .- somerset. Mastiffs.

Burial of the Dead

Oh, if monuments were marshalled according to men's
merits, what change would it cause in our churches !
See we here the care the Jews had of decent burying
their dead. True it is, bodies flung in a bog will not
stick there at the day of judgment ; cast into a wood,
will find out the way ; thrown into a dungeon, will have
free egress ; left on the highway, are still in the ready
road to the resurrection. Yet seeing they are the taber-
nacles of the soul, yea, the temples of the Holy Ghost,
the Jews justly began, and Christians commendably con-
tinue the custom of their solemn interment.

PUgah Sight, B. iii. C. i. S. vii. 5.

Cards
It were no great harm if there were no other cards
used than those of clothiers about wool, and of mariners
in the ship. But as for cards to play with, let us not
wholly condemn them, lest, lacing our consciences too
strait, we make them to grow awry on the wrong side,
c 2 Such

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20

(5E)i0e (^otbe anb

Thomas
Fuller

Such recreations are lawful, if we use them as Jonathan
tasted the honey : putting forth the end of his rod, he
touched a little of it, and his eyes were cleared. But let
us take heed of a surfeit, into which those do fall who
either play out of covetousness, or for more than their
estates can bear, or constantly and continually. All their
meat is sauce ; all the days in their almanack play-days,
though few holy-days. The creation lasted but a week,
but these men's recreations all the days of their lives.
Such using of lawful exercises is altogether unlawful.

Notes on Jonahs i. 7.

Catechising

Reader, pardon an excursion caused by just grief and
anger. Many, counting themselves Protestants in Eng-
land, do slight and neglect that ordinance of God, by
which their religion was set up, and gave credit to it in
the first Reformation ; I mean. Catechising. Did not
our Saviour say even to Saint Peter himself, ' Feed my
lambs, feed my sheep.' And why /a»Z(5j first ? i. Because
they were lambs before they were sheep. 2. Because, if
they be not fed whilst lambs, they could never be sheep.
3. Because sheep can in some sort feed themselves ; but
lambs (such their tenderness) must either be fed or

famished. Worthies: Sussex. Writers.

Cathedrals

I HAVE read of duke d'Alva, that he promised life to
some prisoners ; but, when they petitioned him for food,
he returned, ' he would grant them life, but no meat ; '
by which criticism of courteous cruelty the poor people
were starved. If our cathedrals have only a bare being,

and

Ouain^ CouneePc

21

and be not supplied with seasonable repairs (the daily
food of a fabric) soon will they be famished to nothing.

Worthies: Stafford. Buildings.

Ceremonies

I HAVE a high esteem for the cross in baptism, so long
as it observes the due distance of an ancient and signifi-
cant ceremony, and intrudes not itself as essential. A
chain of gold is an eminent ornament about the neck ;
but it may be drawn so close, as to choke and strangle
the wearer thereof. And in like manner ceremonies,
though decent and useful, when pretending to essentiality,
become (as Luther saith) carnificincB conscientice, and
therefore justly may we beware thereof.

Appeal of Injured Innocence, P. ii. Animad. Ch. Hist. ii. 41.

CHARACTERS

Thomas Allen
Thomas Allen was born in this county, deriving his
original from Alanus de Buckenhole, lord of Buckenhole,
in the reign of king Edward the Second. He was bred
in Gloucester Hall in Oxford ; a most excellent mathema-
tician, where he succeeded to the skill and scandal of
friar Bacon (taken at both, but given I believe by neither),
accounted a conjuror. Indeed vulgar eyes, ignorant in
optics, conceit that raised which is but reflected, fancy
every shadow a spirit, every spirit a devil. And when
once the repute of a conjurer is raised in vulgar esteem,
it is not in the power of the greatest innocence and learn-
ing to allay it. He was. much in favour with Robert earl
of Leicester ; and his admirable writings of mathematics

are

Thomas

Fuller

22

(^iee (^ovb0 anb

Thomas
Fuller

are latent with some private possessors, which envy the
public profit thereof. He died, a very aged man, towards
the end of the reign of king James.

Worthies: Stafford. Writers.

Characters {continued)
Bishop Lancelot Andrewes
The world wanted learning to know how learned this
man was, so skilled in all (especially oriental) languages
that some conceive he might, if then living, almost have
served as an interpreter-general at the confusion of tongues.
Nor are the Fathers more faithfully cited in his books,
than lively copied out in his countenance and carriage ;
his gravity in a manner awing king James, who refrained
from that mirth and liberty in the presence of his prelate,
which otherwise he assumed to himself. He lieth buried
in the chapel of St. Mary Overy's, having on his monu-
ment a large, elegant, and true epitaph. . . . He was the
prince of all our Enghsh critics : and whereas men of that
tribe are generally morose, so that they cannot dissent
from another without disdaining, nor oppose without
inveighing against him, it is hard to say whether more
candour, learning or judgment, was blended in his ' Miscel-
lanies.' By discovering how much Hebrew there is in the
New Testament Greek, he cleareth many real difficulties

from his verbal observations.

Ch. Hist. B. xi. S. i. 46.

Andronicus
We must be wary how, in our censures, we shut heaven-
door against any penitents. Far be it from us to distrust
the power of God's mercy, or to deny the efficacy of true

(though

Ouainf Cottn0ef0

23

(though late) repentance. The last groan which divorces
the soul from the body, may unite it to God : though the
arm of his body was cut off, the hand of his faith might
hold. All that I will add is this : If Andronicus's soul
went to heaven, it is pity that any should know of it, lest
they be encouraged to imitate the wicked premisses of his
life, hoping by his example to obtain the same happy
conclusion after death. prc/am state, b. v. c. xvUi. 9.

Francis Bacon, Lord Chancellor
None can character him to the life, save himself. He
was in parts more than a man ; who in any liberal pro-
fession might be whatsoever he would himself: a great
honourer of ancient authors, yet a great deviser and
practiser of new ways in learning : privy counsellor, as to
king James, so to nature itself, diving into many of her
abstruse mysteries. New conclusions he would dig out
with mattocks of gold and silver ; not caring what his ex-
perience cost him, expending on the trials of nature all
and more than he got by the trials at the bar ; posterity
being the better for his — though he the worse for his own
— dear experiments. He and his servants had all in
common ; the men never wanting what their master had ;
and thus what came flowing in unto him was sent flying
away from him, who, in giving of rewards, knew no bounds
but the bottom of his own purse. Wherefore, when king
James heard that he had given ten pounds to an under-
keeper, by whom he had sent him a buck, the king said
merrily, ' I and he shall both die beggars ; ' which was
condemnable prodigality in a subject. He lived many
years after ; and in his books will ever survive : in the

reading

Thomas
Fuller

24

^t0e OX>ovi>0 anb

Thomas
Fuller

reading whereof, modest men commend him in what
they do — condemn themselves in what they do not —
understand, as believing the fault in their own eyes, and
not in the object. ch. Hist. b. x. s. v. 22.

Characters {continued)
Sir Nicholas Bacon
He gave for his motto, ' Mediocria Firma ; ' and prac-
tised the former part thereof, mediocria ; never attaining,
because never affecting, any great estate. He was not
for invidious structures, (as some of his contemporaries),
but dehghted in domo domino pari; such as was his
house at Gorhambury in Hertfordshire. And thereforei
when queen Elizabeth, coming thither in progress, told
him, ' My lord, your house is too little for you : ' ' No,
madam,' returned he, no less wittily than gratefully, ' but
it is your highness that hath made me too great for mine
house.' Now as he was a just practiser of the first part
of his motto, mediocria, so no doubt he will prove a true
prophet in the second part thereof, ^r«a, having left an
estate, rather good than great, to his posterity, whose
eldest son. Sir Edward Bacon, in this county, was the
first baronet of England. He died on the 20th of Feb-
ruary, 1578, and heth buried in the choir of St. Paul's.
In a word, he was a good man, a grave statesman, a father
to his country, and father to Sir Francis Bacon.

Worthies: Suffolk. Statesmen.

Baldwin II
The Death of Baldwin the Second
King Baldwin, a little before his death, renounced
the world, and took on him a religious habit. This was

the

Ouainf Couneefe

25

the fashion of many princes in that age, though they did
it for divers ends. Some thought to make amends for
their disordered lives by entering into some holy order at
their deaths ; others, having surfeited of the world's vanity,
fasted from it when they could eat no more, because of the
impotency of their bodies ; others, being crossed by the
world by some misfortune, sought to cross the world again
in renouncing of it. These, like furious gamesters, threw
up their cards, not out of dislike of gaming but of their
game ; and they were rather discontented to live than
contented to die. But we must believe that Baldwin did
it out of true devotion, to ripen himself for heaven,
because he was piously affected from his youth, so that
all his life was religiously tuned, though it made the
sweetest music in the close. Holy War, b. ii. c. 18.

Baldwin IV
Thus anguish of mind and weakness of body (a doughty
conquest for their united strengths, which single might
suffice) ended this king's days, dying young at five and
twenty years of age. But if by the morning we may
guess at the day, he would have been no whit inferior to
any of his predecessors ; especially if his body had been
able : but (alas !) it spoiled the music of his soul, that the
instrument was quite out of tune. He reigned twelve
years, and was buried in the Temple of the Sepulchre
[May 16, 1 185]: a king happy in this, that he died
before the death of his kingdom. Holy war, b. ii. c. 42.

Nicholas Breakspear
He was afterwards chosen Pope of Rome, by the name
of Adrian the Fourth. There is a mystery more than I

Thomas
Fuller

24

(^i0e QX)ovbtf (xnb

Thomas
Fuller

reading whereof, modest men commend him in what
they do — condemn themselves in what they do not —
understand, as believing the fault in their own eyes, and
not in the object. ca. i/ist. b. *. s. v. 22.

Characters (continued)
Sir Nicholas Bacon
He gave for his motto, ' Mediocria Firma ; ' and prac-
tised the former part thereof, mediocria ; never attaining,
because never affecting, any great estate. He was not
for invidious structures, (as some of his contemporaries),
but delighted in domo domino pari; such as was his
house at Gorhambury in Hertfordshire. And therefore^
when queen Elizabeth, coming thither in progress, told
him, ' My lord, your house is too little for you : ' ' No,
madam,' returned he, no less wittily than gratefully, ' but
it is your highness that hath made me too great for mine
house.' Now as he was a just practiser of the first part
of his motto, mediocria, so no doubt he will prove a true
prophet in the second part thereof, firma, having left an
estate, rather good than great, to his posterity, whose
eldest son, Sir Edward Bacon, in this county, was the
first baronet of England. He died on the 20th of Feb-
ruary, 1578, and heth buried in the choir of St. Paul's.
In a word, he was a good man, a grave statesman, a father
to his country, and father to Sir Francis Bacon.

Worthies: Suffolk^ Statesmen.

Baldwin II
The Death of Baldwin the Second
King Baldwin, a little before his death, renounced
the world, and took on him a religious habit. This was

the

Ouainf (toxunet^U

25

the fashion of many princes in that age, though they did
it for divers ends. Some thought to make amends for
their disordered lives by entering into some holy order at
their deaths ; others, having surfeited of the world's vanity,
fasted from it when they could eat no more, because of the
impotency of their bodies ; others, being crossed by the
world by some misfortune, sought to cross the world again
in renouncing of it. These, like furious gamesters, threw
up their cards, not out of dislike of gaming but of their
game ; and they were rather discontented to live than
contented to die. But we must believe that Baldwin did
it out of true devotion, to ripen himself for heaven,
because he was piously affected from his youth, so that
all his life was religiously tuned, though it made the
sweetest music in the close. ffoi^i ivar, b. u. c. 18.

Baldwin IV
Thus anguish of mind and weakness of body (a doughty
conquest for their united strengths, which single might
suffice) ended this king's days, dying young at five and
twenty years of age. But if by the morning we may
guess at the day, he would have been no whit inferior to
any of his predecessors ; especially if his body had been
able : but (alas !) it spoiled the music of his soul, that the
instrument was quite out of tune. He reigned twelve
years, and was buried in the Temple of the Sepulchre
[May 16, 1 185] : a king happy in this, that he died
before the death of his kingdom. Holy War, b. h. c. 42.

Nicholas Breakspear
He was afterwards chdsen Pope of Rome, by the name
of Adrian the Fourth. There is a mystery more than I

can

Thomas
Fuller

26

(^iu (K)ovJi0 anb

Thomas
Fuller

can fathom in the changing of his name, seeing his own.
font-name was a papal one ; yet he preferred rather to be
Adrian the Fourth than Nicholas the Third. He held
his place four years, eight months, and eight and twenty
days: and, anno 1 158, as he was drinking, was choked
with a fly ; which in the large territory of St. Peter's
Patrimony had no place but his throat to get into. But,
since a fly stopped his breath, fear shall stop my mouth,
not to make uncharitable conclusions from such casual-
ties. Worthies: Herts. Pcfe.

Characters (continued)
Bishop Brownrigg

King James, coming to Cambridge, was (amongst
others) entertained with a philosophy act ; and Mr.
Brownrigg was appointed to perform the Joco-serious ^zii
thereof; who did both, to the wonder of the hearers.

Herein he was like himself, that he could on a sudden
be so unlike himself, and instantly vary his words and
matter from mirth to solidity. No man had more ability,
or less inclination, to be satirical, in which kind posse et
nolle is a rarity indeed. He had wit at will ; but so that
he made it his page, not privy councillor, to obey, not
direct his judgment. He carried learning enough in
numerato about him in his pockets for any discourse, and
had much more at home in his chests for any serious
dispute. It is hard to say whether his loyal memory, quick
fancy, solid judgment, or fluent utterance, were most to
be admired, having not only flumen hut fulmen eloquentia,
being one who did teach with authority.

IVortkies: Suffolk, Prelates,

Death

Ouaittf Cotttt0e00

27

Death of the Venerable Bede
Bedels last Blaze, and the Going- out of the Candle of
his Life. a.d. 734
One of the last things he did was the translating of the
Gospel of St. John into English. When death seized on
him, one of his devout scholars, whom he used for his
secretary or amanuensis, complained, ' My beloved
master, there remains yet one sentence unwritten.'
' Write it, then, quickly,' replied Bede, and, summoning
all his spirits together, like the last blaze of a candle
going out, he indited it, and expired. Thus, God's
children are immortal while their Father hath any thing
for them to do on earth ; and death, ' that beast, cannot
overcome and kill them, till first they have finished their
testimony,' Rev. xi. 7 ; which done, like silkworms, they
willingly die when their web is ended, and are comfort-
ably entombed in their own endeavours. Nor have
I aught else to observe of Bede, save only this : A foreign
ambassador, some two hundred years since, coming to
Durham, addressed himself first to the high and sump-
tuous shrine of St. Cuthbert, ' If thou beest a saint, pray
for me ; ' then, coming to the plain, low, and little tomb
of Bede, ' Because,' said he, ' thou art a saint, good Bede,
pray for me.' ch. nut. b. ii. is.

Benedict Biscop
In a word, I reverence his memory, not so much for
his first bringing over painted glass into England, as for
his bringing up pious Bede in his monastery. Being
struck beneath the girdle with the dead palsy, his soul
retired into the upper rooms of his clay cottage, much

employed

Thomas
Fuller

(Wint (BJorde rtn^

TtiontKi
FmUw

oini>loyod in iwalitation, until tl>o il;iv of l\is doiith, \vliicl>
Chftracters {>\mtiMH<^i)

\\U11\M lU'riKK

\\u 1 1 AM lU'n KK was Ihhii at Ipswivh in this <Hniuty,
whrix- ho had one only hi\>th(M\ who, j;v>in,i; In-Yond si\i,
turui-d I'apist, for w'liirl\ cause this William was so
olVoudod with hin\, thut ho U-ft hin\ nv>uo of his ostalo,
I ohsorvo this tlAO rather, hooauso this \Villi«n\ lUitU'i
was oausolossly suspoolcil for (lopish inohnatious. llo
was hrod follow of Claro Hall in (,"au\l>ridgo, whoro ho
hooau\o tho ^I'lsoulanius of our ago, llo was Iho first
I'aiglislunan who quiokoi\od (lalonioal physio with a
tovioh of I'araoolsus, trading in ohouiioal ixH'oipts witl>
groat suoooss. His oyo was o\ot>llont at Iho instant
disoovory of a oadavounis faoo, on which ho would not
lavish any art. This inado hin>, nt tho lirst sight of siok
prinoo llonry, to got hin\solf i>iit of sight. Knowing
hinisolf lo ho tho prinoo of physicians, l\o would ho
olisorvod accordingly. (\iinplin>onts wimld prevail no
thing with hiu>, onlroalios hut little, surly thrcalonings
would do uuich, and a witty jeer do anything, lie was
hotter pleased with pro.sonis than u\onoy, loved what was
pretty rather than what was cosily ; and prefoired rarities
hofore riehos. Neatness he nogloelod inti> slovenliness;
and aeoounting oiiiVs to ho manacles, ho n\ay ho said not
to have ukuIo himself ready for some seven years tO'
gi-thor. llo made his huinorsomoi\oss lo hecon\o hin\,
whoreii\ ,s(>n\o of his profession have rather apod than
imitated him, who had nionwHiiti-m (ri/uiif'ili-ni, ami kopi

the

Qudint Coun0el!0

-";

l\w li'iKir of lh(^ Muine HurlliicHH to nil purHoiiw. I lu was ft
KimkI hfiifrni'Inr id ( ,'lmt! Hull ; iind dying i()ar, he waH
liiiiird in the (Oifliiccl of S(. Mary'H In C:uiiil(ri(l|.f, iinilcr
ft fiiir iiKimnnent. Mr. John ('nine, llml cxjumI iiiiotlit-
<iuy iiiid hJH exrciilor, In «iniu biirinl by him ; and If
miiiic fiiiinaiiL miini'dn WUH Inti'iicd on hin oilier Hidf, I
would Kfty, thilt i)hy,sic Ifty liu'io in Hdilt.', with ilH Iwo pngCH
unending it. in^nhku n„//m. i'h'leln»>-

Cami'ian

C'ami'IAN, one llltcr lorn tninipcliT tlum (i soldier;

whoNt; licHt ubllity WUH, llml hccoultl IioiihI In ^ood l.ulin,

lifinf,' cxcellunt ul tliu lint liiuid of rhcloric, which rulhfr

gIvt'H pulH thun blowH ; but he I'oiild not bend hiw list to

dlspiltf. lloly.SMt, II. II, t'. J,

Cadh', and SruAw
CaiU ami Shvw liko and iin/ikr. a, ii. i .150
Aiuiur IIiIh time Jink ( !«dt! rium'd hin rebellion, like
and unlike to the Conner coinniotion of h"'' Siniw.
Like, I'irHt. HectiiiHe Jiicks both ; \ im-iui, insolent,
!ni|>ndenl, domineering clownM. Seeoiully. Moth of
them were Kenli.sh by their exlrnctions, 'Thirdly. Ilolh
ol' Iheni pressed upon London, and there prinei|ially
pltiyed Iheir pranks, hoiirlhly, Uoth of them, ftfler
they hud troubled the land tor a short lime, were justly
olfttn, and their numerous rubble routed and dispersed.
In other remarkubles, ("ude dil'fered from Jack Straw.
I''ii'st. Straw delied all nobility and leurninn, vowing nnd
endeavouring Iheir ruin and extirpation; whilst fade
pretended himself to be the lord Mortin\er, and next

heir

Thonmii
rullsr

3°

^i0e (^ovbe anb

Thomas
Fuller

heir to the crown, and no design against learning is
charged on his account. Lastly. Straw's rebellion is
(though most falsely) fathered by popish writers on
Wickliffe and his adherents, [who are said] to have
occasioned, at leastwise connived at, his commotion;
but I never met yet with any Romanists accusing the
Lollards, as they term them, for having any hand in
Cade's rebellion. a. Hist. b. iv. s. Hi. 22.

Characters (continued)

Catherine of Arragon

At this time, January 8th, Catherine dowager, whom
we will be bold still in courtesy to call ' a queen,' not-
withstanding King Henry's proclamation to the contrary,
ended her woful life at Kimbolton. A pious woman
toward God, (according to her devotion,) frequent in
prayer, which she always performed on her bare knees,
nothing else between her and the earth interposed ; little
curious in her clothes, being wont to say, she accounted
no time lost but what was laid out in dressing of her ;
though art might be more excusable in her, to whom
nature had not been over bountiful. She was rather
staid, than stately ; reserved, than proud ; grave from
her cradle, insomuch that she was a matron before she
was a mother. This her natural gravity increased with
her apprehended injuries, settled in her reduced age into
a habit of melancholy, and that terminated into a con-
sumption of the spirits. She was buried in the abbey-
church of Peterborough, under a hearse of black say;
probably by her own appointment, that she might be
plain when dead, who neglected bravery of clothes when

living.

Qttaitti ^oun0ef0

31

living. A noble pen tells us, that in intuition to her
corpse here interred, king Henry, at the destruction of
abbeys, not only spared the church in Peterborough, but
also advanced it into a cathedral. If so, it was civilly
done of him not to disturb her in her grave whom he had
so disquieted in her bed. ch. Hist. b. v. s. iv. ig.

Death of Charles I

My cue of entrance is to come in where the state-writer
doth go out, whose pen hath always followed the con-
fessors into the chambers of dying people; and now
must do its last devoir to my gracious master, in de-
scribing his pious death and solemn burial.

Having received in himself the sentence of death. Dr.
Juxon, bishop of London, preached privately before him,
at St. James's, on the Sunday following, January 28th;
his text, Romans ii. 16 : 'In the day when God shall
judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to
my Gospel.'

Next Tuesday, January 30th, being the day of his
dissolution, in the morning alone he received the com-
munion from the hands of the said bishop. At which
time he read for the second lesson, the twenty-seventh
chapter of St. Matthew, containing the history of the
death and passion of our Saviour. Communion ended,
the king heartily thanked the bishop for selecting so
seasonable and comfortable a portion of Scripture, seeing
all human hope and happiness is founded on the suffer-
ings of our Saviour. The bishop modestly disavowed
any thanks due to himself, it being done merely by the
direction of the church of England, whose Rubric ap-

pointeth

Thomas
Fuller

(^iee (^ovb0 anb

Thomas
Fuller

Characters (amtinueii).

pointeth that chapter the second morning-lesson for the
thirtieth of January.

His hour drawing nigh, he passed through the park to
Whitehall. As he always was observed to walk very
fast, so now he abated not any whit of his wonted pace.
In his passage a sorry fellow (seemingly some mean
citizen) went abreast along with him, and, in an affront,
often stared his majesty in the face, which caused him to
turn it another way. The bishop of London, though not
easily angered, was much offended hereat, as done out of
despiteful design, to discompose him before his death,
and moved the captain of the guard he might be taken
away ; which was done accordingly.

Entering on the floor of death, he asked of colonel
Tomlinson, who attended there, whether he might have
the liberty to dispose of his own body, as to the place
and manner of the burial thereof. The colonel an-
swered that he could give his majesty no account at all
therein.

His majesty held in his hand a small piece of paper,
some four inches square, containing heads whereon in
his speech he intended to dilate; and a tall soldier
looking over the king's shoulders read it, as the king
held it in his hand. As for the speech which passeth
in print for the king's, though taken in short-hand, by
one eminent therein, it is done so defectively, it deserveth
not to be accounted his speech, by the testimony of such
as heard it. His speech ended, he gave that small paper
to the bishop of London.

After his death, the ofificers demanded the paper of the
bishop ; who, because of the depth of his pocket, small-

Ouainf £outt0ePe

33

ness of that paper, and the mixture of others therewith,
could not so soon produce it as was required. At last
he brought it forth; but therewith the others were
unsatisfied, (jealousy is quick of growth,) as not the
same which his majesty delivered unto him ; when
presently the soldier, whose rudeness (the bad cause of
a good effect) had formerly over-inspected it in the king's
hand, attested this the very same paper, and prevented
farther suspicions, which might have terminated to the
bishop's trouble.

On the Wednesday se'nnight after, (February 7th,) his
corpse, embalmed and coffined in lead, was delivered to
the care of two of his servants, to be buried at Windsor ;
— the one Anthony Mildmay, who formerly had been his
sewer, as I take it ; the other John Joyner, bred first in
his majesty's kitchen, afterwards a parliament-captain,
since by them deputed (when the Scots surrendered his
person) cook to his majesty. This night they brought
the corpse to Windsor, and digged a grave for it in
St. George's chapelj on the south side of the communion-
table. Ch. Hist. B. xi. S. x. 36-43.

Charles, King of Jerusalem

He survived a year or two longer, but dull and
melancholic, living as it were without life, and died at
last, having reigned king of Jerusalem twenty years :
a prince who had tasted of various success ; fortune
for a while smiling on him, and at last laughing at him.

Holy War, B. iv. C. xxxi.

His

ThomES
Ftiller

34

(^t0e (^ovbe anb

Thomas
FuUer

Characters (continued)
His Son
For as high hills . near the seaside, though otherwise
never so base and barren ground, yet will serve to be
sea-marks for the direction of mariners ; so this Charles,
together with Hugh, John, and Henry, Kings of Cyprus,
pretending also to Jerusalem, though we read nothing
remarkable of them, will become the front of a page,
and serve to divide and distinguish times, and to parcel
the history the better to our apprehension. As for the
bare anatomy of their reign (for we iind it not ileshed
with any history), with the dates of their beginnings and
endings, we shall present it to the reader hereafter in our
chronology. idtm.

A Fighting Cock

[AMP.] Cock. I am sorry I cannot add

his Christian name, and more sorry that I cannot
certainly avouch his nativity in this county (though
inclined with many motives to believe it) being a cock
of the game indeed : for in the eighty-eight, ' Solus
cockus Anglus in sui inter medios hostes navicula, cum
laude periit.' And whereas there was not a noble
family in Spain but lost either son, brother, or nephew,
in that fight ; this cock was the only man of note of the
English, who, fighting a volunteer in his own ship, lost
his Ufe, to save his queen and country :

'Unus homo nobis pereundo restituit rem.'

Pity it is his memory should ever be forgotten ; and
my pen is sensible of no higher preferment, than when

it

Ouain^ Couneefe

.35

it may be permitted to draw the curtains about those
who have died in the bed of honour.

IVorikies; Devon. Seamen.

Will. Compton
He was highly and deservedly a favourite to this king
Henry VIII ; so that, in the court, no lay-man, abating
only Charles Brandon (in whom affection and affinity
met), was equal unto him. He might have been, for
wealth or honour, what he pleased ; but contented
himself with what he was. For the happiness of whom,
and his, when I cannot orally pray, I will make signs of

my affection to heaven. WorthUs: Worcester. Sheriffs.

Thomas Coriat

Though some will censure him, as a person rather
ridiculous than remarkable, he must not be omitted ;
for, first, few would be found to call him fool, might
none do it save such who had as much learning as
himself. Secondly, if others have more wisdom than
he, thankfulness and humility is the way to preserve
and increase it.

He was born at Odcombe nigh Evil, in this county ;
bred at Oxford, where he attained to admirable fluency
in the Greek tongue. He carried folly (which the
charitable called merriment) in his very face. The
shape of his head had no promising form, being like a
sugar-loaf inverted, with the little end before, as com-
posed of fancy and memory, without any common sense.

Such as conceived him fool ad duo, and something
else ad decern, were utterly mistaken : for he drave on
D 2 no

Thomas
roller

(^i0e (^ovb0 anb

Thomas
FuUer

no design, carrying for coin and counters alike; so
contented with what was present, that he accounted
those men guilty of superfluity, who had more suits
and shirts than bodies, seldom putting off either till
they were ready to go away from him.

Prince Henry allowed him a pension, and kept him
for his servant. Sweet-meats and Coriat made up the
last course at all court entertainments. Indeed he was
the courtiers' anvil to try their wits upon : and some-
times this anvil returned the hammers as hard knocks
as it received, his bluntness repaying their abusiveness.

His book, known by the name of ' Coriat's Crudities,'
nauseous to nice readers, for the rawness thereof, is not
altogether useless ; though the porch be more worth
than the palace, I mean, the preface, of other men's
mock-commending verses thereon.

IVorthies : Somerset, Mem. Pers.

Characters {continued^

Sir Rowland Cotton

Incredible are the most true relations, which many

eye-witnesses, still alive, do make of the valour and

activity of this most accomplished knight; so strong,

as if he had been nothing but bones ; so nimble, as if

he had been nothing but sinews. Worthies: Shropshire.

Thomas Cromwell

Match-makers betwixt private persons seldom find
great love for their pains, betwixt princes often fall into
danger, — as here it proved in the lord Cromwell, the
grand contriver of the king's marriage with Anne of

Cleves.

Ouainf Cottneefe

Z7

Cleves. On him the king had conferred honours so
many, and so suddenly, that one may say, the crudities
thereof lay unconcocted in his soul, so that he could
not have time to digest one dignity before another was
poured upon him. Not to speak of his Mastership of
the Jewel-house, he was made Baron, Master of the
Rolls, the King's Vicar-General in spiritual matters.
Lord Privy Seal, Knight of the Garter, Earl of Essex,
Lord Great Chamberlain of England. And my author
observeth', that all these honours were conferred upon
him in the compass of five years, most of them possessed
by him not five months ; I may add, and all taken from
him in less than five minutes, with his life on the
scaffold.

This was the cause why he was envied of the nobility
and gentry, — being by birth so much beneath all, by
preferment so high above most of them. Besides, many
of his advancements were interpreted not so much
honours to him as injuries to others, as being either in
use improper — or in equity unfit — or in right unjust —
or in conscience unlawful — for him to accept. His
Mastership of the Rolls, such who were bred lawyers
conceived it fitter for men of their profession. As for
the -earldom of Essex conferred upon him, though the
title lately became void by the death of Henry Bour-
chier, the last earl without issue-male, (and so in the
strictness of right in the king's free disposal,) yet because
he left Anne, a sole daughter, behind him, Cromwell's
invading of that honour bred no good blood towards
him amongst the kindred of that orphan, who were

' Camden.

honourable

Thomas
Fuller

(^tce (?E)or50 an6

Thomas
Fuller

Characters (continued).

honourable and numerous. His Lord Great Chamber-
lainship of England, being an office for many years
hereditary in the ancient and honourable house of
Oxford, incensed all of all that family, when beholding
him possessed thereof. His Knighthood of the Garter,
which custom has appropriated to such who by three
degrees at least could prove their gentle descent, being
bestowed on him, did but enrage his competitors thereof,
more honourably extracted. As for his being the King's
Vicar-General in spiritual matters, all the clergy did rage
thereat, grudging much that King Henry the substance —
and, more, that Cromwell his shadow — should assume
so highi a title to himself. Besides, Cromwell's name
was odious unto them, on the account of abbeys dis-
solved ; and no wonder, if this Samson, plucking down
the pillars of the popish church, had the rest of the
structure falling upon him. These rejoiced when the
duke of Norfolk arrested him for treason at the council-
table, July 9th, whence he was sent prisoner to the
Tower.

And now, to speak impartially of him, though in
prison : If we reflect on his parts and endowments, it
is wonderful to see how one quality in him befriended
another. Great scholar he was none, (the Latin Testa-
ment gotten by heart being the master-piece of his
learning,) nor any studied lawyer, (never long living,
if admitted, in the Inns of Court,) nor experienced
soldier, (though necessity cast on him that calling, when
the duke of Bourbon besieged Rome,) nor courtier in
his youth, till bred in the court, as I may call it, of
cardinal Wolsey's house ; and yet, that of the lawyer in

him

Quaint tovLvicde

39

him so helped the scholar ; that of the soldier, the
lawyer ; that of the courtier, the soldier ; and that of
the traveller so perfected all the rest,^ — being no stranger
to Germany, well acquainted with France, most famihar
with Italy, — that the result of all together made him for
endowments eminent, not to say admirable.

a. Hist. B. V. S. V. 20, 22.

Sir Francis Drake

His escape from shipwreck

On January 9th, 1579, his ship, having a large wind and
a smooth sea, ran aground on a dangerous shoal, and
struck twice on it ; knocking twice at the door of death,
which, no doubt, had opened the third time. Here they
stuck, from eight o'clock at night till four the next
afternoon, having ground too much, and yet too little
to land on ; and water too much, and yet too little to
sail in. Had God (who, as the wise man saith, ' holdeth
the winds in his fist,' Prov. xxx. 4) but opened his little
finger, and let out the smallest blast, they had un-
doubtedly been cast away ; but there blew not any wind
all the while. Then they, conceiving aright that the
best way to lighten the ship was, first, to ease it of the
burden of their sins by true repentance, humbled them-
selves, by fasting, under the hand of God. Afterwards
they received the communion, dining on Christ in the
sacrament, expecting no other than to sup with him in
heaven. Then they cast out of their ship six great pieces
of ordnance, threw overboard as much wealth as would
break the heart of a miser to think on it, with much
sugar, and packs of spices, making a caudle of the sea

round

Thomas
FuUer

40

^i0e (ps)otd0 anb

Thomas
Fuller

round about. Then they betook themselves to their
prayers, the best lever at such a dead lift indeed ; and it
pleased God, that the wind, formerly their mortal enemy,
became their friend ; which, changing from the starboard
to the larboard of the ship, and rising by degrees, cleared
them off to the sea again, — ^for which they returned
unfeigned thanks to Almighty God. Boiy state, b. ii. c. xxH

Characters (continued )
Sir Francis Drake
Disappointment and Death
Now began Sir Francis's discontent to feed upon him.
He conceived, that expectation, a merciless usurer, com-
puting each day since his departure, exacted an interest
and return of honour and profit proportionable to his
great preparations, and transcending his former achieve-
ments. He saw that all the good which he had done ir)
this voyage, consisted in the evil he had done to the
Spaniards afar off, whereof he could present but small
visible fruits in England. These apprehensions, accom-
panying, if not causing, the disease of the flux, wrought
his sudden death, January 28th, 1595. And sickness did
not so much untie his clothes, as sorrow did rend at
once the robe of his mortality asunder. He lived by the
sea, died on it, and was buried in it. Thus an ex-
tempore performance (scarce heard to be begun, before
we hear it is ended) comes off with better applause, or
miscarries with less disgrace, than a long-studied and
openly-premeditated action. Besides, we see how great
spirits, having mounted to the highest pitch of per-
formance.

Ouain^ 4^outt6ef0

41

formance, afterwards strain and break their credits in
striving to go beyond it. Lastly, God oftentimes leaves
the brightest men in an eclipse, to show that they do
but borrow their lustre from his reflexion. We will not
justify all the actions of any man, though of a tamer
profession than a sea-captainj in whom civility is often
counted preciseness. For the main, we say that this
our captain was a religious man towards God and his
houses, (generally sparing churches where he came),
chaste in his life, just in his dealings, true of his word,
and merciful to those that were under him, hating
nothing so much as idleness : and therefore, lest his
soul should rust in peace, at spare hours he brought
fresh water to Plymouth. Careful he was for posterity,
(though men of his profession have as well an ebb of
riot, as a float of fortune,) and providently raised a
worshipful family of his kindred. In a word : should
those that speak against him fast till they fetch their
bread where he did his, they would have a good stomach
to eat it. Idem.

Mr. John Dod

The same year with this archbishop (Laud), died
another divine, (though of a different judgment,) no less
esteemed amongst men of his own persuasion ; namely,
Mr. John Dod, who, in the midst of troublesome times,
quietly withdrew himself to heaven. He was born at Shot-
ledge in Cheshire, the youngest of seventeen children ;
bred in Jesus College in Cambridge. At a disputation at
one Commencement he was so facetiously solid, (wild yet
sweet fruits which the stock brought forth before grafted

with

Thomas
Fuller

42

(K)t0e (^or60 cinb

Thomas
Fuller

Characters (continued).

with grace,) that Oxford-men, there present, courted him
home with them, and would have planted him in their
university, save that he dechned it.

He was a passive nonconformist, not loving any one
the worse for difference in judgment about ceremonies,
but all the better for their unity of affections in grace
and goodness. He used to retrench some hot spirits
when inveighing against bishops, telling them how God
under that government had given a marvellous increase
to the Gospel; and that godly men might comfortably
comport therewith, under which learning and religion
had so manifest an improvement. He was a good
decalogist, and is conceived, to his dying day, (how
roughly soever used by the opposite party,) to stick to
his own judgment of what he had written on the fifth
commandment, of obedience to /awful authority.

Some riotous gentlemen, casually coming to the table
of Sir Anthony Cope, in Hanwell, were half-starved in
the midst of a feast, because refraining from swearing,
(meat and drink to them,) in the presence of Mr. Dod ;
of these one after dinner ingenuously professed, that he
thought it had been impossible for himself to forbear
oaths so long a time. Hereat Mr. Dod (the flame of
whose zeal turned all accidents into fuel) fell into a
pertinent and seasonable discourse (as better at occa-
sional) of what power men have, more than they know
of themselves, to refrain from sin, and how active God's
restraining grace would be in us to bridle us from
wickedness, were we not wanting to ourselves.

Being stricken in years, he used to compare himself
to Samson when his hair was cut off. ' I rise,' saith he,

'in

Ouattt^ Cottn0ef0

43

' in a . morning as Samson did, and think, I will go out
as at other times, go, watch, walk, work, study, ride, as
when a young man. But, alas ! he quickly found an
alteration ; and so do I, who must stoop to age, whicR
hath clipped my hair and taken my strength away.'

Being at Holdenby, and invited by an honourable
person to see that stately house built by Sir Christopher
Hatton, the master-piece of English architecture in that
age, he desired to be excused, and to sit still looking on
a flower which he had in his hand. ' In this flower,'
saith he, ' I can see more of God than in all the beau-
tiful buildings in the world.' And at this day, as his
flower is long since withered, tHat magnificent pile, that
fair flower of art, is altogether blasted and destroyed.

It is reported, he was but coarsely used of the Cava-
liers ; who, they say, plundered him of his linen and
household-stuif, though, as some tell me, if so disposed,
he might have redeemed all for a very small matter.
However, the good man still remembered his old
maxim, — 'Sanctified a,fflictions are good promotions:'
and I have been credibly informed, that, when the
soldiers brought down his sheets out of the chamber
into the room where Mr. Dod sat by the fire-side ; he, in
their absence to search after more, took one pair and
clapped them under his cushion whereon he sat, much
pleasing himself after their departure that he had, as he
said, plundered the plunderers, and by a lawful felony
saved so much of his own to himself.

He was an excellent scholar, and was as causelessly
accused, as another John of his name, (Mr. John Fox
I mean,) for lacking of Latin. He was also an exquisite

Hebrician

Thomas
Fuller

44

(5E)i0e (3X)otri0 att5

Thomas
Fuller

Hebrician ; and, with his society and directions, in one
vacation taught that tongue unto Mr. John Gregory,
that rare linguist, and chaplain of Christ Church, who
survived him but one year ; and now they both together
praise God in that language which glorified saints and
angels use in heaven.

He was buried at Fauseley in Northamptonshire, with
whom the Old Puritan may seem to expire, and in his
grave to be interred ; humble, meek, patient, hospitable,
charitable as in his censures of — so in his alms to —
others. Would I could truly say but half so much of
the next generation ! ch. Hist. b. xi. s. ix. 85.

Characters {continued^
King Edward I
The death of King Edward I. gave a great advancement
to the Pope's encroaching. A worthy prince he was, fixed
in his generation betwixt a weak father and a son ; as if
made wise and valiant by their antiperistasis : equally
fortunate in drawing and sheathing the sword, in war
and peace ; having taught the English loyalty, by them
almost forgotten ; and the Welsh, subjection, which they
never learned before. In himself, religiously disposed ;
founded the famous abbey of Vale Royal for the Cis-
tercians in Cheshire, and by will bequeathing thirty-two
thousand pounds to the Holy War : obedient, not servile,
to the see of Rome : a foe to the pride, and friend to
the profession, of the clergy ; whom he watered with his
bounty, but would not have to spread so broad as to
justle, or grow so high as to overtop the regal authority ;
dying in due time for himself, almost seventy years old ;

but

Ouaitt^ fi^ouneefe

45

but too soon for his subjects, especially for his son,
whose giddy youth lacked a guide to direct him. In a
word : As the arm of King Edward I. was accounted the
measure of a yard, generally received in England ; so
his actions are an excellent model and a praiseworthy
platform for succeeding princes to imitate.

Ck. Hist. B. iii. S. vii. ii.

King Edward II

The calamitous reign of King Edward II. afforded little
history of the Church, though too much of the common-
wealth except it had been better. A debauched prince this
Edward was ; his beauty being the best (not to say only)
commendable thing about him. He had an handsome
man-case, and better it had been empty with weakness,
than (as it was) ill-fitted with viciousness. Pierce Gave-
ston first corrupted him, maugre all the good counsel
that Robert, archbishop of Canterbury, and all his good
friends, could give him. And, when Gaveston was killed
and taken away, the king's badness was rather doubled,
than diminished ; exchanging one pandar to vice for two,
the two Spencers. In a word, the court was turned
tavern, stews, stage, play-house : wherein as many vain
and wanton comedies were acted before the king in his
lifetime, so a sad and sorrowful tragedy was acted by
him at his death. ca. HUt. b. ui. s. vii. 13.

Queen Eleanor

It is storied, how Eleanor his lady sucked all the poison
out of his wounds, without doing any harm to herself; so
sovereign a medicine is a woman's tongue, anointed with

the

Thomas
Fuller

(^10^ ^otr60 (xnb

Thomas
Fuller

the virtue of loving affection. Pity it is so pretty a story
should not be true (with all the miracles in Lover's
Legends), and sure he shall get himself no credit, who
undertaketh to confute a passage so sounding to the
honour of the sex ; yet can it not stand with what others
have written how the physician who was to dress his
wounds spake to the Lord Edmund and the Lord John
Voysey to take away Lady Eleanor out of the prince's
presence, lest her pity should be cruel towards him, in
not suffering his sores to be searched to the quick. And
though she cried out and wrung her hands, 'Madam,'
said they, ' be contented ; it is better that one woman
should weep a little while, than that all the realm of Eng-
land should lament a great season : ' and so they conducted
her out of the place. And the prince, by the benefit
of physic, good attendance, and an antidote the master
of the Templars gave him, showed himself on horseback
whole and well within fifteen days after.

Ifoly War, B. iv. C. xxU.

Characters (continued)
Queen Elizabeth, her Death

Then prepared she herself for another world, being
more constant in prayer and pious exercises than ever
before. Yet spake she very little to any, sighing out
more than she said, and making still music to God in
her heart. And as the red rose, though outwardly not
so fragrant, is inwardly far more cordial than the damask,
being more thrifty of its sweetness, and reserving it in
itself; so the religion of this dying queen was most
turned inward, in soliloquies betwixt God and her own

soul

Oua(n( Cottn0ef0

47

soul, though she wanted not outward expressions thereof.
When her speech failed her, she spake with her heart,
tears, eyes, hands, and other signs, so commending her-
self to God, the best Interpreter, who understands what
his saints desire to say. Thus died Queen Elizabeth ;
whilst living, the first maid on earth ; and, when dead,
the second in heaven.

Surely, the kingdom had died with their queen, had
not the fainting spirits thereof been refreshed by the
coming-in of gracious King James.

She was of person, tall ; of hair and complexion, fair,
well-favoured, but high-nosed ; of limbs and features,
neat ; of a stately and majestic deportment. She had
■a piercing eye, wherewith she used to touch what metal
[mettle] strangers were made of, who came into her
presence. But as she counted it a pleasant conquest,
with her majestic look to dash strangers out of counten-
ance ; so she was merciful in pursuing those whom she
overcame ; and afterwards would cherish and comfort
them with her smiles, if perceiving towardliness and an
ingenuous modesty in them. She much affected rich and
costly apparel ; and if ever jewels had just cause to be
proud, it was with her wearing them. /^^^ state, b. iv. c. xv.

Erasmus' Complaint of College Ale

Erasmus often complained of the College-ale, cervisia
hujus loci mihi nulla modo placet, — as raw, small, and
windy ; whereby it appears, i. Ale in that age was
the constant beverage of all Colleges before the innova-
tion of beer (the child of hops) was brought into
England. 2. Queen's College cervisia was not vis

Cereris

Thomas
Fuller

48

(Wiet (^ovbe <xnb

Thomas
Fuller

Cereris, but Ceres vitiata. In my time, (when I was
a member of that house,) scholars continued Erasmus's
complaint; whilst the brewers (having, it seems, pre-
scription on their side for long time) little amended it.
The best was, Erasmus had his iagena or flagon of wine
recruited weekly from his friends at London ; which he
drank sometimes singly by itself, and sometimes en-
couraged his faint ale with the mixture thereof

Hist. Camb. S. v. 48.

Characters (continued)

John Feckehnam

The same year also John Feckenham late abbot of
Westminster, ended his life : whereon we must enlarge
ourselves, if not for his, for history's sake, seeing he was
a landmark therein ; his personal experience being a
chronicle, who, like the axletree, stood firm and fixed
in his own judgment, whilst the times, Uke the wheels,
turned backwards and forwards round about him. He
was born in Worcestershire, in the forest of Feckenham,
(whence he fetched his name,) bred a Benedictine monk
in the abbey of Evesham, where he subscribed with the
rest of his Order to the resignation of that house into the
hands of King Henry VIII. Afterwards he studied in
Oxford, then applied himself first to Bell, bishop of
Worcester, and after his death to Bonner, of London,
where he crossed the proverb, ' Like master, like man,'
the patrftn being cruel, the chaplain kind, to such who
in judgment dissented from him. He never dissembled
his religion, being a zealous papist, and under King
Edward VI. suffered much for his conscience.

In

Ouaittf Cottn0ef0

49

In the reign of queen Mary, he was wholly employed
in doing good offices for the afflicted protestants, from
the highest to the lowest. The earl of Bedford, and
(who afterwards were) of Warwick and Leicester, tasted
of his kindness : so did Sir John Cheke, yea, and the
lady Elizabeth herself; so interposing his interest with
queen Mary for her enlargement, that he incurred her
Grace's displeasure. Hence it is that papists complain,
that in the reign of queen Elizabeth he reaped not a crop
of courtesy proportionable to his large seed thereof in the
days of queen Mary.

Queen Mary afterwards preferred him from being dean
of Paul's to be abbot of Westminster ; which church she
erected and endowed for Benedictine monks, of which
order fourteen only could be found in England, then
extant since their dissolution, which were unmarried,
unpreferred to cures, and unaltered in their opinions.
These also were brought in with some difficulty at first,
and opposition; for the prebendaries of Westminster,
legally settled in their places, would not resign them, till
cardinal Pole, partly by compulsion, partly by compen-
sation, obtained their removal.

Queen Elizabeth, coming to the crown, sent for abbot
Feckenham to come to her, whom the messenger found
setting of elms in the orchard of Westminster abbey.
But he would not follow the messenger till first he had
finished his plantation, which his friends impute to his
soul employed in mystical meditations, — that as the trees
he there set should spring and sprout many years after
his decease, so his new plantation of Benedictine monks
in Westminster should take root and flourish, in defiance

E of

Thomas
FnUer

50

(^iec (^otbe an5

Thpmas
Fuller

of all opposition J which is but a bold conjecture of
others at his thoughts. Sure I am, those monks long
since are extirpated ; but how his trees thrive at this day,
is to me unknown. Coming afterwards to the queen,
what discourse passed betwixt them, they themselves
knew alone. Some have confidently guessed she prof-
fered him the archbishopric of Canterbury, on condi-
tion he would conform to her laws; which he utterly
refused.

In the treaty between the protestants and papists,
prima Elizabeths, he was present : but in what capacity,
I cannot satisfy myself: surely more than a disputant,
(amongst whom he was not named,) yet not so much as
a moderator. And yet his judgment, perchance because
abbot, and so principal man in that place, was asked
with respect, and heard with reverence, his moderation
being much commende4 : Now, although he was often
confined, sometimes to the Tower, sometimes to friends'
houses, (and died, it seems, at last in restraint in Wis-
beach Castle,) yet generally he found fair usage from the
protestants. He built a conduit in Holborn, and a
cross in Wisbeach, and relieved the poor wheresoever he
came. So that flies flock not thicker about spilt honey
than beggars constantly crowded about him.

Ch. Hist. B. ix. S. vi. 34-38.

Characters (continued)

Death of the Emperor Frederick

But Frederick the emperor, being now entering into
the Holy Land, was, to the great grief of all Christians,
suddenly taken away, being drowned in the river of

Saleph ;

Ouain^ £^oun0ef0

51

Saleph ; a river (such is the envy of barbarism, obscuring
all places) which cannot accurately be known at this
day, because this new name is a stranger to all ancient
maps. If he went in to wash himself, as some write,
he neither consulted with his health nor honour : some
say his horse foundered under him as he passed the water ;
others, that he fell from him. But these several rela-
tions, as variety of instruments, make a doleful concert
in this, that there he lost his life : and no wonder, if the
cold water quickly quenched those few sparks of natural
heat left in him at seventy years of age. Neubrigensis
conceiveth that this his sudden death was therefore
inflicted on him because, in his youth, he fought against
the popes and church of Rome : but I wonder that he,
seeing the emperor drowned in a ditch, durst adventure
into the bottomless depths of God's counsels. Let it
content us to know, that oftentimes heaven blasteth
those hopes which bud first and fairest ; and the feet of
mighty monarchs do slip, when they want but one step
to their enemies' throne. miy War, b. iii. c. 4.

Frederick II, Emperor

Little hope have I to content the reader in this king's
life, who cannot satisfy myself ; writers of that age are
so possessed with partiality. The faction of the Guelfes
and GibeUines discovereth not itself more plainly in the
camp than in the chronicles ; yea, historians turn school-
men in matters of fact, arguing them/w et con. And as
it is in the fable of the man that had two wives, whilst
his old wife plucked out his black hairs, the evidence of
his youth, his young one un-grayhaired him, that no
E 2 standards

Thomas
FuHer

52

(H?i0e (^oxbe anb

Thomas
FuUer

standards of antiquity might remain, they made him bald
betwixt them : so amongst our late writers ; whilst Protes-
tants cut off the authority from all papized writers of that
age, and Romanists cast away the witness of all imperial-
ized authors then living (such as Urspergensis is, and
generally all Germans), counting them iesies domesticos,
and therefore of no validity : betwixt them they draw all
history of that time very slender, and make it almost
quite nothing. We will not engage ourselves in their
quarrel ; but may safely believe that Frederick was
neither saint nor devil, but man. Many virtues in him
his foes must commend, and some vices his friends must
confess. He was very learned, according to the rate of
that age, especially for a prince, who only baiteth at
learning, and maketh not his profession to lodge in.
Wise he was in projecting, nor were his thoughts ever so
scattered with any sudden accident, but he could in-
stantly recollect himself. Valiant he was, and very fortu-
nate, though this tendeth more to God's praise than his ;
wondrous bountiful to scholars and soldiers, whose good
will he enjoyed, for he paid for it. ... In a word, he
was a better emperor than a man, his vices being personal,
most hurting himself; his virtues of a public nature and
accomplishing him for government. Holy War. b. iii. c. ^^g.

Characters (continued)

King Fulco

A PRINCE of a sweet nature ; and though one would
have read him to be very furious by his high-coloured
countenance, yet his face was a good hypocrite ; and

(contra

Oudn^ Coun0ef0

53

(contra leges istius coloris, saith Tyrius) he was affable,
courteous, and pitiful to all in distress. id. b. u. c. 23.

Nicholas Fuller

He was most eminent for that grace which is most
worth, yet costeth the least to keep it ; I mean humility,
who in his writings doth as fairly dissent from, as freely
concur with, any man's opinions. He died about the

year of our Lord 1626. worthies: Hants. Writers.

Richard Greenham

His master-piece was in comforting wounded con-
sciences. For, although Heaven's hand can only set a
broken heart, yet God used him herein as an instrument
of good to many, who came to him with weeping eyes,
and went from him with cheerful souls. The breath of
his gracious counsel blew up much smoking flax into a
blazing flame.

Hereupon, the importunity of his friends (if herein they
proved so) persuaded him to leave his parish, and remove
to London, where his public parts might be better advan-
taged for the general good. They pleaded the little
profit of his long pains to so poor and peevish a parish.
Pity it was so good a fisherman should cast his nets else-
where than in that ocean of people. What was Dry
Drayton but a bushel to hide — London a high candle-
stick to hold up — the brightness of his parts? Over-
entreated by others, even almost against his own judgment,
he resigned his cure to a worthy successor, and repaired
to London ; where, after some years' preaching up and

down

Thomas
Fuller

54

@E)i6e (^otbe an5

Thomas
Fuller

down in no constant place, he was resident on no cure,
but the curing of consciences. I am credibly informed,
he in some sort repented his removal from his parish,
and disliked his own erratical and planetary life, which
made him fix himself preacher at last at Christ Church,
in London, where he ended his days. . .

Thus goodly Greenham is fallen asleep ; we softly
draw the curtains about him and so proceed to other
matter. c&. Hist. b. ix. s. vH.

Characters (continued)

Archbishop Grindal

Whoso beholds the large revenues conferred on
Grindal, the long time he enjoyed them, (bishop of
London, archbishop of York and Canterbury, above
eighteen years,) the little charge encumbering him,
dying a single man, will admire at the mean estate he
left behind him. Yea, perchance they will erroneously
impute this to his prodigality, which more truly is to be
ascribed to his contempt of the world, unwilling to die
guilty of m.uch wealth ; not to speak of fat servants made
under a lean master. The little he had, as it was well-
gotten, was well-bestowed, in pious uses on Cambridge
and Oxford, with the building and endowing of a school
at St. Bees in Cumberland, where he was born. Yea,
he may be beheld as a benefactor to the English nation,
for bringing tamarisk first over into England. As the
inventors of evil things are justly taxed by the apostle,
Rom. i. 13 ; so the first importers of good things deserve
due commendation; that plant being so sovereign to

mollify

Ouain^ fi;ottn0e00

55

mollify the hardness of the spleen ; a malady whereof
students (betrayed thereunto by their sedentary lives) too
generally do complain. z^. b. ix. s. v. 25.

John Gower
John Gower was born, saith Leland, at Stitenham (in
the North Riding in Bulmore Wapentake) of a knightly
family. He was bred in London a student of the
laws, till, prizing his pleasure above his profit, he quitted
pleading to follow poetry. He was the first refiner
of our English tongue, effecting much but endea-
vouring more therein. Thus he who sees the whelp of
a bear but half licked, will commend it for a comely
creature, in comparison of what it was when first brought
forth. Indeed Gower left our English tongue very bad,

but found it very very bad. Worthies: Yorks. Writers.

GUSTAVUS Adolphus
After his death, how did men struggle to keep him
alive in their reports ! partly out of good-will, which
made them kindle new hopes of his life at every spark of
probability ; partly out of infidelity, that his death could
be true. First, they thought so valiant a prince could
not live on earth ; and when they saw his life, then they
thought so valiant a prince could never die, but that his
death was rather a concealment for a time, daily expect-
ing when the politicly dead should have a resurrection in
some noble exploit. Holy state, b. iv. c. 18.

Richard Hampole
Richard Role, ahas Hampole, had his first name
from his father, the other from the place (three miles from

Doncaster)

Thomas
FuUur

56

(Witft. (^otbtf anb

Thomas
Tuller

Doncaster) where living he was honoured, and dead was
buried and sainted. He was an eremite, led a strict life,
and wrote many books of piety, which I prefer before his
prophetical predictions, as but a degree above almanac
prognostications. He threatened the sins of the nation
with future famine, plague, inundations, war, and general
calamities from which no land is long free, but subject
to them in some proportion. Besides, his predictions,
\i hitting, were heeded: \i missing, not marked.

However, because it becomes me not ayiajiaxeiv, let
him pass for a saint. I will add, that our Saviour's
dilemma to the Jews may partly be pressed on the
papists his contemporaries. If Hampole's doctrine was
of men, why was he generally reputed a saint ; if from
God, why did they not obey him, seeing he spake much
against the viciousness and covetousness of the clergy of
that age? He died anno Domini 1349.

Worthies : Yorks, Saints,

Characters (continued)
Henry HI
Quiet king Henry HI, our English Nestor, (not for
depth of brains, but length of life,) as who reigned
fifty-six years, in which term' he buried all his con-
temporary princes in Christendom twice over. All the
months in a year may in a manner be carved out of an
April day ; hot, cold, dry, moist, fair, foul weather, being
oft presented therein. Such the character of this king's
life, certain only in uncertainty: sorrowful, successful;
in plenty, in penury; in wealth, in want; conquered,
conqueror. ca. /r,v. b. m. s. in. ,.

Henry V

Ouain( (toixnede

57

Henry V

On the last of August, king Henry V ended his life
in France; one of a strong and active body, neither
shrinking in cold, nor slothful in heat, going commonly
with his head uncovered : the wearing of armour was no
more cumbersome unto him than a cloak. He never
shrunk at a wound, nor turned away his nose for ill
savour, nor closed his eyes for smoke or dust ; in diet,
none less dainty or more moderate ; his sleep, very short
but sound ; fortunate in fight, and commendable in all
his actions ; verifying the proverb, that an ill youth may
make a good man. The nunnery of Sion was built and
endowed by him ; and a college was by him intended in
Oxford, had not death prevented him.

Id. B. iv, S. ii. 44.

Henry VIII

Henry VIII, . . . one of a beautiful person,
and majestic presence, insomuch that his picture
in all places is known at the first sight. As for the
character of his mind, all the virtues and vices of all
his predecessors from the Conquest may seem in him
fully represented, both to their kind and degree, —
learning, wisdom, valour, magnificence ; cruelty, avarice,
fury, and lust; following his pleasures whilst he was
young, and making them come to him when he was old.
Many memorable alterations in church and state
happened in his age; as, God willing, hereafter shall
appear. ^d. b. v. s. i. 5.

Richard

Thomas

Fuller

^8

(Piee (^Qvb0 anb

Thomas
FuUer

Characters ifontinued)

Richard Hooker

Hooker was born in Devonshire, bred in Oxford,
Fellow of Corpus Christi College \ one of a solid judg-
ment and great reading. Yea,, such the depth of his
learning, that his pen was a better bucket than his
tongue to draw it out ; a great defender both by
preaching and writing of the discipline of the Church of
England, yet never got (nor oared to get) any eminent
dignity therein ; conscience, not covetousness, engaging
him in the controversy. Spotless was his conversation ;
and, though some dirt was cast, none could stick on his
reputation. . . .

Mr. Hooker's voice was low, stature little, gesture
none at all, standing stone-still in the pulpit, as if the
posture of his body were the emblem of his mind,
unmovable in his opinions. Where his eye was left
fixed at the beginning, it was found fixed at the end of
his sermon. In a word, the doctrine he deUvered had
nothing but itself to garnish it. His style was long and
pithy, driving on a whole flock of several clauses before
he came to the close of a sentence ; so that when the
copiousness of his style met not with proportionable
capacity in his auditors, it was unjustly censured for
perplexed, tedious, and obscure. His sermons followed
the inclination of his studies, and were for the most part
on controversies, and deep points of school-divinity.

Ch. Hist, ix, S. vii. 49, 53.

Hooker's

Ouainf Couneefe

59

Hooker's style was prolix, but not tedious ; and such
who would patiently attend and give him credit all the
reading or hearing of his sentences, had their expecta-
tions over-paid at the close thereof. He may be said to
have made good music with his fiddle and stick alone,
without any resin; having neither pronunciation nor

gesture to grace his matter. IVorthies: Deaon. Writers.

Jewel, Bishop of Salisbury

A Jewel (sometimes taken for a single precious stone)
is properly a collective of many, orderly set together to
their best advantage. So several eminencies met in this
worthy man ; naturals, artificials, (amongst which I re-
count his studied memory, deserving, as well as Theo-
dectes the sophister, the surname of Mnemonicus,) morals,
but principally spirituals ; so devout in the pew where
he prayed, diligent in the pulpit where he preached,
grave on the bench where he assisted, mild in the con-
sistory where he judged, pleasant at the table where he
fed, patient in the bed where he died, that well it were
if, in relation to him, secundum usum Sarum were made
precedential to all posterity. He gave at his death to
Peter Martyr a golden rose, yet more fragrant for the
worth of the giver than the value of the gift ; to the city
of Zurich, a present which they converted into a piece of
plate with JeweFs arms thereon; to several scholars,
large legacies ; to the church of Salisbury, a fair library ;
and another, to the Church of England; I mean, his

learned

Thomas
Fuller

6o

(XOiee (^otbe anb

Thomas
FuUer

learned ' Apology.' It is hard to say whether his soul
or his ejaculations arrived first in heaven, seeing he
prayed dying, and died praying. a. HUt. b. ix. s. iiL ».

Characters {continued^
Bishop Jewel's Weakness
To return to Mr. Jewel : He had not lived long in
Broadgates Hall, when, by the violence of the popish
inquisitors being assaulted, on a sudden, to subscribe,
he took a pen in his hand, and smiling, said, ' Have you
a mind to see how well I can write ? ' and thereupon
underwrit their opinions. Thus the most orient Jewel
on earth hath some flaws therein. To conceal this his
fault, had been partiality ; to excuse it, flattery ; to defend
it, impiety ; to insult over him, cruelty ; to pity him,
charity ; to admire God, in permitting him, true devotion;
to be wary of ourselves, in the like occasion, Christian
discretion. ch. Hist. b. via. s. i. 15.

William Lily, first Schoolmaster of St. Paul's

William Lily was the first schoolmaster thereof, by
Colet's own appointment : an excellent scholar, born at
Odiam in Hampshire, and afterward he went on pil-
grimage as far as Jerusalem. In his return through Italy
he applied himself to his studies. . . . Returning home into
his native country well-accomplished with Latin, Greek,
and all arts and sciences, he set forth a grammar, which
still goes under his name, and is universally taught all
over England.

Many were the editions of this grammar ; the first set

forth

Ouain^ £:oun0ef0

6i

forth anno 15 13, when Paul's school was founded, as
appears by that instance, meruit sub rege in Gallia,
relating to Maximilian the German emperor, who then at
the siege of Therovenne in Flanders, fought under the
banner of king Henry VIII, taking an hundred crowns
a day for his pay. Another edition, anno 1520, when
audita rege Doroberniam proficisci refers to the king's
speedy journey into Canterbury, there to give entertain-
ment to Charles V emperor, lately landed at Dover.

Formerly there were in England almost as many
grammars as schoolmasters, children being confounded,
not only with their variety, but (sometimes) contrariety
thereof ; rules being true in the one which were false in
the other. Yea, which was the worst, a boy when re-
moved to a new school lost all he had learned before :
whereupon king Henry endeavoured an uniformity of
grammar all over his dominions ; that so youths, though
changing their schoolmasters, might keep their learning.
This was performed, and William Lily's grammar en-
joined universally to be used. A stipend of four pounds
a year was allowed the king's printer for printing of it ;
and it was penal for any pubUcly to teach any other. I
have been told how, lately, bishop Buckeridge examining
a free school in his diocese of Rochester, the scholars
were utterly ignorant of Lily's rules, as used to others ;
whereat the bishop exclaimed, ' What, are there Puritans
also in grammar ? '

I deny not but some since have discovered blasted
leaves in our Lily, observing defects and faults therein ;
and commendable many persons' pains in amending them.
However, it were to be desired, that no needless variations

be

Thomas
Fuller

62

(^i0^ (K)or60 anb

Thomas
Fuller

be made, and as much left of Lily as may be; the
rather, because he submitted his Syntaxis to the judg-
ment of Erasmus himself, so that it was afterward printed
amongst his works. Indeed Qucr Genus was done by
Thomas Robinson, and the Accidence (as some will
have it) by other authors, after Lily was dead, and prince
Edward born, of and for whom it was said, ' Edvardus
is my proper name.' And thus we take our leave both
of Lily and Paul's school, ilourishing at this day as much
as ever, under the care of Mr. John Langley, the able
and religious schoolmaster thereof.

Ch. Hist, B. V. S. i. 17, 20.

Characters {continued)

Queen Mary

Take queen Mary in herself abstracted from her
opinions, and by herself secluded from her bloody coun-
sellors, and her memory will justly come under com.
mendation. Indeed, she knew not the art of being
popular, and never cared to learn it, and generally
(being given more to her beads than her book) had
less of learning, (or parts to get it,) than any of her
father's children. She hated to equivocate in her own
religion; and always was what she was, without dis-
sembling her judgment or practice for fear or flattery ;
little beloved of her subjects, to whom though once
she remitted an entire subsidy, yet it little moved
their affections, because, though liberal in this act, she
had been unjust in another, — her breach of promise

to

Ouain^ tounetie

63

to the gentry of Norfolk and Suifolk. However, she
had been a worthy princess, had as little cruelty been
done under her as was done by her. Her devotion
always commanded her profit, and oftentimes did fill
the church with the emptying of her own ejcchequer.

Id. B. viii. S. iii. 53.

Toby Matthew, Archbishop

Within the compass of this year [1628] died the
reverend Toby Matthew, archbishop of York. He was
born in the Somersetshire side of Bristol, and in his
childhood had a marvellous preservation, when with a
fall he brake his foot, ancle, and small of his leg, which
were so soon recovered to eye, use, sight, service, that
not the least mark remained thereof. Coming to Oxford,
he fixed at last in Christ Church, and became dean
thereof. He was one of a proper person, (such people
cmteris paribus, and sometimes cceteris imparibus, were
preferred by the queen,) and an excellent preacher;
Campian himself confessing, that he did dominari in
concionibus. He was of a cheerful spirit, yet without any
trespass on episcopal gravity; there lying a real dis-
tinction between facetiousness and nugacity. None
could condemn him for his pleasant wit, though often
he would condemn himself, as so habited therein, he
could as well not be, as not be merry, and not take up an
innocent jest as it lay in the way of his discourse. . . .

He died yearly in report ; and I doubt not but that, in
the apostle's sense, he died daily in his mortifying
meditations. He went over the graves of many who
looked for his archbishopric. I will not say, they

catched

Thomas
Fuller

64

^t0e (^otb0 anb

Thomas
FuUer

catched a cold in waiting barefoot for a living man's
shoes. His wife, the daughter of bishop Barlow, (a
confessor in queen Mary's days,) was a prudent and
a provident matron. Of this extraction came Sir Toby
Matthew, having all his father's name, many of his
natural parts, few of his moral virtues, fewer of his
spiritual graces, as being an inveterate enemy to the
protestant religion. George Mountaine succeeded him,
scarce warm in his church before cold in his coffin, as
not continuing many months therein.

C&. Hist. B. xi. S. i. 74, 76.

Characters (continued^
Dr. Metcalf, expelled St. John's Coll. Cambridge.

Well, good old Metcalf must forsake the House.
Methinks the blushing bricks seem ashamed of their
ingratitudes ; and each door, window, and casement in
the college was a mouth to plead for him.

But what shall we say? Mark generally the grand
deservers in States, and you shall find them lose their
lustre before they end their life; the world, out of
covetousness to save charges to pay them their wages,
quarrelling with them, as if an over-merit were an offence.
And whereas some impute this to the malignant influence
of the heavens, I ascribe it rather to a pestilent vapour
out of the earth ; I mean, that rather men, than stars,
are to be blamed for it.

He was twenty years Master ; and on the fourth day
of June, 1537, went out of his office, and it seems died
soon after. His epitaph is fastened on a piece of brass

on

Ouaitt^ £:outt0eP0

65

on the wall, in the college chapel. We must not forget
that all who were great doers in his expulsion were great
suiferers afterwards, and died all in great misery. There
is difference betwixt prying into God's secrets, and being
stark blind. Yea, I question whether we are not bound
to look where God points by so memorable a judgment,
showing that those branches most justly withered which
plucked up their own root. Holy state, b. u. c. xv.

Walter Parsons

Born in this county, was first apprenticed to a smith,
when he grew so tall in stature, that a hole was made for
him in the ground, to stand therein up to the knees, so
to make him adequate with his fellow-workmen. He
afterwards was porter to king James; seeing as gates
generally are higher than the rest of the building, so it
was sightly that the porter should be taller than other
persons. He was proportionable in all parts, and had
strength equal to height, valour to his strength, temper
to his valour ; so that he disdained to do an injury to
any single person. He would make nothing to take two
of the tallest yeomen of the guard (like the gizzard and
liver) under his arms at once, and order them as he
pleased.

Yet were his parents (for ought I do understand to the
contrary) but of an ordinary stature ; whereat none will
wonder who have read what St. Augustine reports of a
woman which came to Rome (a little before the sacking
thereof by the Goths) of so giant-like a height, that she
was far above all who saw her, though infinite troops
came to behold the spectacle. And yet he addeth,

F 'Et

Thomas
Fuller

66

(^iee (H)otr60 anb

Thomas
Fnller

' Et hoc erat maximse admirationis, quod ambo parentes
ejus,' &c., (this made men most admire that both her
parents were but of ordinary stature).

This Parsons is produced for proof that all ages afford
some of extraordinary height, and that there is no general
decay of mankind in their dimensions ; which if there
were, we had ere this time shrunk to be lower than
pigmies, not to instance in a less proportion. This
Parsons died anno Domini 162 . .

Worthies : Stafford. Rcjiiarkdble Persons,

Characters {continued)
Mr. Perkins

His sermons were not so plain but that the piously
learned did admire them, nor so learned but that the
plain did understand them. What was said of Socrates,
'that he first humbled the towering speculations of
philosophers into practice and morality ; ' so our Perkins
brought the schools into the pulpit, and, unshelling
their controversies out of their hard school-terms, made
thereof plain and wholesome meat for his people. For
he had a capacious head, with angles winding and roomy
enough to lodge all controversial intricacies; and had
not preaching diverted him from that way, he had no
doubt attained to eminency therein. An excellent surgeon
he was at jointing of a broken soul, and at stating of a
doubtful conscience. And, sure, in case-divinity Protes-
tants are defective. For, (save that a Smith or two of
late have built them forges, and set up shop), we go
down to our enemies to sharpen all our instruments,

and

OuAin^ toMntfde

67

lind lllr lil'lioldi'll lo llll'lll for orCrnNlvc (Uld (IrlcuHlve
Wi'llpOMM ill (ilHCN ()( (■Olllirlr||C(',

III' WDiild iironoiiiirc iJic word i/tu//u willi iiiidi ;in
'•iiiiiIkinIm, im li'ft II, dolcl'iil cclio In |iIn luidilorM' I'lim ;i
K<i()d whili- iiricr; mid wln'ii (:iilc(;h|Kt of Cjniol CiiWiy^c,
In <'x|i()iiiidlnK iIh' ( loiiiiiiiiiidini'nlH, ii|i|)liitd tlnMii mo
liuiiic, libit' iiliiuml, lo iiiiilut hiN li(!iiri'r»' liniiln liiil down,
mid liiiirM lo Mliiiid ii|iri(/,iil,. Iliil: in IiIh oidrr ny,t; lie
iilli'idd IiIn voiii', iind n-iiiillcd iiiii' Ii of ]•\\^ Conner
rl((l(lni^NM ; ollrn profcNHliig llml, lo piviicli ninry wiiii
tliiil |Mo|icr ollirc ol'llic ininiNlerH oCllii' OoHpcl.

//«/j/ ,V/»///, II. II, C„ X,

||'h/\N('ih '.)iiAiu,h;:i

I In; WHM II, niohl i'X(('||cnl- poi'l,, inwl lind 11, mind liiiiHcd
lo di'volliMi, lliiil iic^ liccn coiiLcniponny witil I'liilo
(llliil H,ii'iil, liiii'ii-li'lt'iid lo |)o('Ih), iif would nol, only liiivi:
iiilowi'd liliii lo live, lull. imIviiii'cuI him l.o iin oDicct in iiiH

romilionwcilllll. Ii;:,ll,hti limu l\-,ll,>n.

Siu Wai.tkk Kamuiiii

'Tiiic NonN <ir Ih-lli NLild iiiilo Alii'iiliiim, 'I'lioii in'l, a
gri'iil, |irlni-i' iimon|j,Nl iin ; In llu^ clioirc of our hciiiiIiIiich
liiiry lliy dciid ; none nIiiiII williliold llicm Iroiii llici'.' So
iiwiy wn Nfty to llic int'inory of IIiIh worlliy kniKiil,
' KcpoNn yoiii'Hcll III iIiIn our ciiIiiIokui! iindrr wliiil lnpic
yon pIciiHi', ol' Htiili'Miniin, Hcinnim, mildicr, li'iiriu'd wrili'r,
lind wliiil not?' Hill woilli iinloi^kN our cIoncnI, <'iiliiiU'lH ;
lind pi(ividi.'M liolli room iiiul wt'lroinc lo cnUirliiin

illlll. lit. Ihwii. ,\Minfti,

V J 'I'llOMAH

TJiom«i«
Irull«r

68

(JOiee (^otr&0 (xnb

Thomas
Fuller

Characters {continued)

Thomas Randolph

Thomas Randolph, born at Houghton in this county,
was first bred in Westminster School, then fellow in
Trinity College at Cambridge. The Muses may seem
not only to have smiled, but to have been tickled at his
nativity, such the festivity of his poems of all sorts. But
my declining age, being superannuated to meddle with
such ludicrous matters, consigneth the censure and
commendation of his poems (as also of his countryman
Peter Haulsted, born at Oundle in this county) to
younger pens, for whom it is most proper. Master
Randolph died anno Domini 167 1.

Worthies: Northampton. Writers,

Saladin

Saladin was the first of the Turkish kings who began
the gainful trade of the mamalukes. These were Christian
captives, brought out of Taurica Chersonesus, and in-
structed as in Mahometanism so in all military discipline ;
Saladin disposing them in martial nurseries, and con-
tinuing a constant succession of them one under another.
It is above belief how much and speedily they were
improved in warlike exercises : art doubled their strength
by teaching them to use it. And though they came
rough out of their own country, they were quickly hewn
and polished by education; yea, their apprehensions
prevented the precepts, and their practice surpassed the
precedents of those that instructed them. And it is

observed

Ouain^ Coutteef0

6^

observed in fruits and flowers, that they are much
bettered by change to a fitter soil ; so were these people
by altering their climate : the cold country wherein they
were bred gave them big and robustious bodies; and
the hot climate whereinto they were transplanted ripened
their wits, and bestowed upon them craft and activity,
the dowry of the southern countries. They attained to
be expert in any service, especially were they excellent
horsemen ; and at last they began to ride on the backs
and necks of the Turkish kings themselves.

True it is, Saladin kept his distance over them, used
them kindly, yet made them not wantons ; and so poised
these mamalukes with his native Egyptians, that in all
actions he still reserved the casting voice for himself.
But Meladin and Melechsala, his successors, entertained
them without number, and instructed them beyond
reason, so that under them in a manner they monopolized
all places of strength and command ; till at last, the stem
of these mercenary soldiers being too great for the stock
of the natives, the Turkish kingdom in Egypt, like a
top-heavy tree, became a windfall. Indeed, the dastard-
ness of the Egyptians made these mamalukes more
daring and insolent. For the Egyptians more loved
profit than honour, and wealth than greatness ; and
though contented to abide labour, would in nowise
undergo danger, Merchandise they were wholly employed
in ; and it seemed they used trading so long, till at last
they made sale of their own spirits. Yea, one could not
now know Egypt to be Egypt, but only by the over-
flowing of the Nile, not by any remaining ancient marks
of valour in the people's disposition. Thus the genius

of

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70

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Fuller

of old kingdoms in time groweth weaker, and doteth at
the last.

But, whoever knew a wall that had no better cement,
to stand so sure and so long ? Two hundred sixty and
seven years this state endured : and yet had it to do
with strong and puissant enemies. Some kingdoms owe
their greatness not so much to their own valour and
wisdom as to the weakness of their neighbours, but it
fared not thus with the mamalukes. To omit Prester
John, who neighboured them on the south, on all other
sides they were encompassed with potent opposers, from
whom right valiantly they defended themselves, till in the
year 15 17 they were overcome by Selimus, the great
Turkish emperor.

To conclude : as for the Amazons and their brave
achievements, with much valour and no manhood, they
and their state had only being in the brains of fabulous
writers. As for the Assassins, or regiment of rogues, it
never spread to the tireadth of any great country, nor
grew to the height of a kingdom ; but, being the jakes of
the world, was cast out in a place betwixt barren hills.
But this empire of vassals was every way wonderful,
stretching so far over all Egypt and most of Syria,
and lasting so long. A strange state, wherein slavery was
the first step to their throne, and apostasy the first
article in their religion ! Hofy war, b. iv. c. 19.

Characters (continued)
Thomas Sternhold
He was a principal instrument of translating the
Psalms into English meter ; the first twenty-six (and seven-

and-thirty

Ouaitt^ Coun0ef0

71

and-thirty in all] being by him performed. Yet had he
other assistance in that work. Many a bitter scoff hath
since been past on their endeavours by some wits, which
might have been better employed. Some have miscalled
these their translations Geneva gigs ; and, which is the
worst, father, or mother rather, the expression on our
virgin queen, as falsely as other things have been charged
upon her. Some have not sticked to say, 'that David
hath been as much persecuted by bungling translators,
as by Saul himself.' Some have made libellous verses in
abuse of them ; and no wonder if songs were made on
the translators of the Psalms, seeing drunkards made
them on David the author thereof.

But let these translations be beheld by impartial eyes,
and they will be allowed to go in equipage with the best
poems in that age. However it were to be wished that
some bald rhymes therein were bettered ; till which time
such as sing them must endeavour to amend them, by
singing them with understanding heads, and gracious
hearts, whereby that which is bad meter on earth will be

made good music in heaven. WorlMes : Hants. Writers.

The Legend of Simon Stock

We must not forget how the Carmelites boast very
much of one Simon Stock of their order, a Kentish-man,
or rather Kentish-boy ; which, being but twelve years of
age, went out into the woods, and there fed on roots and
wild fruit, living in the trunk of a hollow tree, whence he
got the surname of Stock, having a revelation,— that soon
after some should come out of Syria, and confirm his
order ; which came to pass when the Carmelites came

here.

Thomas
FuUer

72

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Tuller

here. He afterwards became master-general of their
order, (to whom the respective provincials are account-
able,) and is said to be famous for his miracles. Let
Syria, then, boast no longer of the sanctity of their Simon
Stulites, so called, it seems, because constantly living
about a stone-pillar; our Simon Stock may mate their
Simon Stone in all particulars of holiness ; though,
under the rose be it spoken, Mr. Richard Stock, the
painful minister of St. All-hallows, Bread-Street, in
London, for thirty-two years did advance God's glory
more than both of them. a. Hist. b. vi. s. ;. 21.

Characters {continued)
Thomas Tarlton the Jester

My intelhgence of the certainty of his birth-place
coming too late, I fix him here, who indeed was born at
Condover in the neighbouring county of Shropshire, where
still some of his name and relations remain. Here he was
in the field, keeping his father's swine, when a servant of
Robert earl of Leicester (passing this way to his lord's lands
in his barony of Denbigh) was so highly pleased with his
happy unhappy answers, that he brought him to court, where
he became the most famous jester to queen EHzabeth.

Many condemn his (vocation I cannot term it, for it is
a coming without a calling) employment as unwarrantable.
Such maintain, that it is better to be a fool of God's
making, born so into the world, or a fool of man's making,
jeered into it by general derision, than a fool of one's
own making, by his voluntary affecting thereof. Such
say also, he had better continued in his trade of swine-
keeping.

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keeping, which (though more painful, and less profitable)
his conscience changed to loss, for a jester's place in the
court, who, of all men, have the hardest account to make
for every idle word that they abundantly utter.

Others allege, in excuse of their practices, that princes
in all ages were allowed their aperdKoyoi, whose virtue
consisted in speaking anything without control : that
jesters often heal what flatterers hurt, so that princes by
them arrive at the notice of their errors, seeing jesters
carry about with them an act of indemnity for whatsoever
they say or do : that princes, overburdened with state-
business, must have their diversions; and that those
words are not censurable for absolutely idle which lead to
lawful delight.

Our Tarlton was master of his faculty. When queen
Elizabeth was serious (I dare not say sullen) and out of
good humour, he could un-dumpish her at his pleasure.
Her highest favourites would, in some cases, go to
Tarlton before they would go to the queen, and he was
their usher to prepare their advantageous access unto her.
In a word, he told the queen more of her faults than
most of her chaplains, and cured her melancholy better
than all of her physicians.

Much of his merriment lay in his very looks and
actions, according to the epitaph written upon him :

' Hie situs est cujus poterat vox, actio, vnltus,
Ex Heraclito reddere Democritum.'

Indeed the self-same words, spoken by another, would
hardly move a merry man to smile; which, uttered
by him, would force a sad soul to laughter.

This is to be reported to his praise, that his jests never

were

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were profane, scurrilous, nor satirical ; neither trespassing
on piety, modesty, or charity, as in which J>/urifnum inerat
sails, multum aceti, aliquid sinapis, nihil •veneni. His
death may proportionably be assigned about the end of

Queen Elizabeth. worthies .■ Stafford. Memorable Persons.

Characters (continued)
Lady Temple
Dame Hester Temple, daughter to Miles Sands,
Esquire, was born at Latmos in this county, and was
married to Sir Thomas Temple, of Stow, Baronet. She
had four sons and nine daughters, which lived to be
married, and so exceedingly multiplied, that this lady
saw seven hundred extracted from her body. Reader, I
speak within compass, and have left myself a reserve,

having bought the truth hereof by a wager I lost

Had I been one of her relations, and as well enabled as
most of them be, I would have erected a monument for
her — thus designed. A fair tree should have been erected,
the said lady and her husband lying at the bottom or
root thereof ; the heir of the family should have ascended
both the middle and top bough thereof. On the right
hand hereof her younger sons, on the left her daughters
should, as so many boughs, be spread forth. Her grand-
children should have their names inscribed on the
branches of those boughs; the great grandchildren on
the twigs of those branches ; the great great grand-
children on the leaves of those twigs. Such as survived
her death should be done in a lively green, the rest (as
blasted) in a pale and yellow fading colour.

Id. Bucks. MeTnorahle Persons,

Theodorus,

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Theodorus, the Patriarch

Soon after his retiring, he ended his life. We need
not inquire into his disease, if we consider his age,
accounting now fourscore-and-four Winters. And well
might his years be reckoned by Winters, as wanting
both Springs and Summers of prosperity, living in
constant affliction. And yet the last four years made
more wounds in his heart, than all the former ploughed
wrinkles in his face. He died, not guilty of any wealth,
who long before had made the poor his heirs, and his
own hands his executors. After hearty prayers that
religion might shine when he was set, falling into a pious
meditation, he went out as a lamp, for lack of oil. No
warning groan was sighed forth to take his last farewell,
but even he smiled himself into a corpse; enough to
confute those that they belie death, who call her grim
and grisly, which in him seemed lovely and of a good
complexion ! The few servants he left, proportioned the
funeral rather to their master's estate than deserts,
supplying, in their sorrow, the want of spices and balm ;
which, surely, must be so much the more precious, as
the tears of men are to be preferred before gums, which
are but the weeping of trees. Holy state, b. v. c. xviii. s. iv. n.

Archbishop of Tyre

William Archbishop of Tyre, a pious man and
excellent scholar, skilled in all the learned Oriental
tongues, besides the Dutch, and French his native
language; a moderate and faithful writer: for in the
latter part of his history of the holy war, his eye guided

his

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his hand, till at last the taking of the city of Jerusalem
so shook his hand, that his pen fell out, and he wrote no

more. I/oly JVar, B. ii. C. 38.

Characters (continued)
Archbishop Warham

William Warham was born at Ockley, of worshipful
parentage in this county ; bred fellow and doctor of the
laws in New College; employed by king Henry the
Seventh (who never sent sluggard or fool on his errand)
to Margaret duchess of Burgundy, and by him advanced
bishop of London, then archbishop of Canterbury,
living therein in great lustre, till eclipsed in power and
profit by Thomas Wolsey, archbishop of York.

It may be said, that England then had ten archbishops,
if a figure and cipher amount to so many ; or else, if it
had but two, they were archbishop Thomas and arch-
bishop Wolsey, drawing all causes to his court-legatine,
whilst all other ecclesiastical jurisdictions in England
kept a constant vacation. This, Warham bare with
much moderation; contenting himself, that, as he had
less honour, so he had less envy, and kept himself cool,
whilst Wolsey, his screen, was often scorched with just

and general hatred. worthies: Hants. Prelates.

John Wickliffe

And here we will acquaint the reader, that, being
to write the History of Wickliffe, I intend neither to
deny, dissemble, defend, nor excuse any of his faults.
'We have this treasure,' saith the apostle, 'in earthen
vessels,' 2 Cor. iv. 7; and he that shall endeavour to

prove

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prove a pitcher of clay to be a pot of gold, will take
great pains to small purpose. Yea, should I be over-
officious to retain myself to plead for Wickliffe's faults,
that glorious saint would sooner chide than thank me,
unwilling that, in favour of him, truth should suffer
prejudice. He was a man, and so subject to error;
living in a dark age, more obnoxious to stumble ; vexed
with opposition, which makes men reel into violence;
and therefore it is unreasonable, that the constitution
and temper of his positive opinions should be guessed
by his polemical heat, when he was chafed in disputation.
But beside all these, envy hath falsely fathered many
foul aspersions upon him. ch. Hist. iv. s. i. s.

His Unburying

Hitherto the corpse of John Wickliffe had quietly
slept in his grave, about one-and-forty years after his death,
till his body was reduced to bones, and his bones almost
to dust. For though the earth in the chancel of Lutter-
worth in Leicestershire, where he was interred, hath not
so quick a digestion with the earth of Aceldama, to
consume flesh in twenty-four hours, yet such the appetite
thereof, and all other English graves, to leave small
reversions of a body after so many years.

But now, such the spleen of the council of Constance,
as they not only cursed his memory, as dying an obstinate
heretic, but ordered that his bones (with this charitable
caution, ' if it may be discerned from the bodies of other
faithful people, ') to be taken out of the ground, and
thrown far off from any Christian burial.

In

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In obedience hereunto, Richard Fleming, bishop of
Lincoln, diocesan of Lutterworth, sent his officers
(vultures with a quick sight scent at a dead carcase) to
ungrave him accordingly. To Lutterworth they come,
Sumner, Commissary, Official, Chancellor, Proctors, Doc-
tors, and the servants (so that the remnant of the body
would not hold out a bone, amongst so many hands)
take what was left out of the grave, and burnt them to
ashes, and cast them into Swift, a neighbouring brook
running hard by. Thus this brook hath conveyed his
ashes into Avon, Avon into Severn, Severn into the
narrow seas, they into the main ocean. And thus
the ashes of Wickliffe are the emblem of his doctrine,
which now is dispersed all the world over.

Ch. Hut. B. iv. S. ii. 51, & 53.

Characters (continued^

Mr. Wiemark

One Mr. Wiemark, a wealthy man, great novellant,
and constant Paul's-walker, hearing the news that day
of the beheading of Sir Walter Raleigh, ' His head,' said
he, ' would do very well on the shoulders of Sir Robert
Naunton, secretary of state.' These words were com-
plained of, and Wiemark summoned to the privy council,
where he pleaded for himself, 'that he intended no
disrespect to Mr. Secretary, whose known worth was
above all detraction; only he spake in reference to an
old proverb, ' Two heads are better than one.' And so
for the present he was dismissed. Not long after, when
rich men were called on for a contribution to St. Paul's,

Wiemark

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Wiemark at the council-table subscribed a hundred
pounds : but Mr. Secretary told him two hundred were
better than one; which, betwixt fear and charity,
Wiemark was fain to subscribe.

Worthies : Suffolk. Statesmen.

The three Sons of William the Conqueror,
how denominated

William the Conqueror left three sons, — Robert,
William, and Henry : and, because hereditary surnames
were not yet fixed in families, they were thus de-
nominated and distinguished : — i. The eldest from Ms
goods of fortune, to which clothes are reduced, Robert
Curthose from the short hose he, wore; not only for
fancy, but sometimes for need, cutting his coat ac-,
cording to his cloth ; his means, all his life long, being
scant and necessitous. 2. The second from the goods of
his body, namely, a ruddy complexion, William Rufus, or
' Red.' But, whether a lovely and amiable or ireful and
choleric red, the reader, on perusal of his Life, is best
able to decide. 3. The third from the goods of his mind,
and his rich abilities of learning, Henry Beauclerk, or,
' the good scholar.' ch. Hist. b. iii. s. ;. 26.

Archbishop Williams

Retiring himself into North Wales, (where his birth,
estate, alliance, but chiefly hospitality did make him
popular,) he had a great — but endeavoured a greater —
influence on those parts. It gave some distaste, that in
all consultations he would have his advice pass for an
oracle, not to be contested with, much less controlled by

any

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Characters (amtmued) — Archbishop Williams

any. But vast the difference betwixt his orders in
Chancery, armed with power to enforce obedience, and
his counsel here, which many military men (as in their
own element) took the boldness to contradict; buff
coats often rubbed and grated against this prelate's silk
cassock, which (because of the softer matter) was the
sooner fretted therewith. Indeed, he endeavoured as
much as might be to preserve his country from taxes,
(an acceptable and ingratiating design with the people,)
but sometimes inconsistent with the king's present and
pressing necessities. All his words and deeds are re-
presented at Oxford (where his court-interest did daily
decline) to his disadvantage, and some jealousies are
raised of his cordialness to the royal cause.

At last some great affronts were put upon him,
(increased with his tender resenting of them,) being
himself, as I have been informed, put out of Commission,
and another placed in his room : a disgrace so much
the more insupportable to his high spirit, because
he conceived himself much meriting of his majesty, by
his loyalty, industry, ability, and expense in his cause,
who hitherto had spared neither care nor cost in ad-
vancing the same, even to the impairing of his own
estate.

But now he entereth on a design, which had I line
and plummet, I want skill to manage them in measuring
the depth thereof. He sueth to the parliament for
favour, and obtained it, whose general in a manner he
becomes in laying siege to the town and castle of
Aberconway, till he had reduced it to their service, and
much of the town to his own possession.

And

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And now meruit sub parliamento in Wallid, is the
wonder of all men. I confe^ss he told his kinsman who
related it to me, that if he might have the convenience
to speak with his majesty but one half-hour, (a small
time for so great a task,) he doubted not but to give
him full satisfaction for his behaviour. Sure it is, those
of the royal party, and his own order, which could not
mine into his invisible motives, but surveyed only the
sad surface of his actions, condemn the same as irre-
concilable with the principles he professed. And though
hereby he escaped a composition for his estate in
Goldsmith's Hall, yet his memory is still to compound
(and at what rate I know not) with many mouths, before
a good word can be afforded unto it. But these, per-
chance, have never read the well-Latined ' Apology ' in
his behalf. And although some will say, that they that
need an apology come too near to fault, the word (as
commonly taken) sounding more of excuse than defence ;
yet, surely, in its genuine notation it speaks, not guilt,
but always greatness of enemies and opposers.

Of all English divines since the Reformation, he might
make the most experimental sermon on the apostle's
words, ' By honour and dishonour, by ill report and good
report;' though the method not so applicable as the
matter unto him, who did not close and conclude with
the general good esteem, losing by his last compliance
his old friends at Oxford, and, in lieu of them, finding
few new ones at London.

Envy itself cannot deny, but that, whithersoever he
went, he might be traced by the footsteps of his
benefaction. Much he expended on the repair of
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Characters {continued) — Archbishop Williams.

Westminster Abbey church ; and his answer is generally
known, when pressed by bishop Laud to a larger con-
tribution to St. Paul's, that he would not rob Peter to
pay Paul. The library of Westminster was the effect of
his bounty; and so was a chapel in Lincoln College
in Oxford, having no other relation thereunto than as
the namesake of his bishopric : so small an invitation
will serve to call a coming charity. At St. John's in
Cambridge he founded two fellowships, built a fair
library, and furnished it with books; intending more,
had his bounty then met with proportionable entertain-
ment. But benefactors may give money, but not
grateful minds, to such as receive it.

He was very chaste in his conversation, whatsoever a
nameless author hath written on the contrary : whom his
confuter hath styled, aulicus e coquinari&, or ' the courtier
out of the kitchen,' and that deservedly for his unworthy
writings, out of what dripping-pan soever he Ucked this
his sluttish intelligence. For most true it is, (as I am
certainly informed from such who knew the privacies and
casualties of his infancy,) this archbishop was but one
degree removed from a misogynist, yet, to palliate his
infirmity, to noble females he was most complete in his
courtly addresses.

He hated popery with a perfect hatred ; and though
oft declaring freedom and favour to imprisoned papists,
as a minister of state, in obedience to his office ; yet he
never procured them any courtesies out of his proper
inclinations. Yea, when Dr. [Bishop], the new bishop of
Chalcedon, at the end of king James's reign, first arrived
in England, he gave the Duke of Buckingham advice,

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(in case other circumstances conveniently concurred),
that the Judges should presently proceed against him,
and hang him out of the way, and the king cast the
blame on archbishop Abbot or himself, prepared (it
seemeth) to undergo his royal displeasure therein.

Not out of sympathy to nonconformists, but antipathy
to bishop Laud, he was favourable to some select persons
of that opinion. Most sure it is, that in his greatness he
procured for Mr. Cotton of Boston a toleration, under
the Broad Seal, for the free exercise of his ministry,
notwithstanding his dissenting in ceremonies, so long
as done without disturbance to the church. But as for
this bishop himself, he was so great an honourer of the
English Liturgy, that, of his own cost, he caused the
same to be translated into Spanish, and fairly printed,
to confute their false conceit of our church, who would
not believe that we used any Book of Common-Prayer
amongst us.

He was of a proper person, comely countenance, and
amiable complexion, having a stately garb and gait by
nature, which (suppose him prouder than he should be)
made him mistaken prouder than he was. His head was
a well-filled treasury, and his tongue the fair key to
unlock it. He had as great a memory as could be
reconciled with so good a judgment ; so quick his parts,
that his extempore performances equalized the pre-
meditations of others of his profession. He was very
open, and too free in discourse, disdaining to lie at
a close guard, so confident of the length and strength
of his weapons.

Thus take we our farewell of his memory, concluding
G 2 it

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Characters (continued) — Archbishop Williams.

it with one of his speeches, (as savoury, I beheve, as ever
any he uttered,) wherein he expressed himself to a grave
minister coming to him for institution in a living. ' I
have,' saith he, ' passed through many places of honour
and trust, both in church and state, more than any of
my order in England this seventy years before. But were
I but assured that by my preaching I had converted but
one soul unto God, I should take therein more spiritual
joy and comfort, than in all the honours and offices
which have been bestowed upon me.'

He died, as I take it, anno 1649 ; sure I am, on the
25th of March, leaving a leading case, (not as yet
decided in our law,) whether his half-year's rents (due
after sunrise) should go with his goods and chattels, unto
his executor, or fall to his heir. The best was, such the
providence of the parties concerned therein, that, before
it came to a suit, they seasonably compounded it
amongst themselves. ch. Hist. b. xi. s. to. 21-32.

Mutual Charity

We see other men's, other men see our mistakes ;
so necessary is mutual candour and charity, because he
who forgiveth to-day may have need to be forgiven

to-morrow. WorthUs.- Kent.

Posthumous Charity

It is the life of a gift, to be done in the life of the
giver ; far better than funeral legacies, which, like Ben-
jamin, are born by the loss of a parent. For, it is not
so kindly charity, for men to give what they can keep no

longer ;

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longer :
abuses.

besides, such donations are most subject to

Silver in the living

Is gold in the giving;

Gold in the dying

Is but silver a-flying;
Gold and silver in the dead
Turn too often into lead.

Hist. Camb. : Sect, viii, ded.

How scandalous was it that exiles of the same
country, for the same cause, could not agree together !
But man in misery, as well as ' man in honour, hath no
understanding.' ca. Hist. b. viii. s. iii. 16.

Cheerfulness

One said, he loved to hear his carter, though not his
cart, to sing. ' God loveth a cheerful giver : ' and Christ
reproved the Pharisees for disiiguring their faces with a
sad countenance. Fools, who, to persuade men that
angels lodged in their hearts, hung out a devil for a sign
in their faces ! Sure, cheerfulness in doing renders a
deed more acceptable. Not like those servants, who
doing their work unwillingly, their looks do enter a pro"
testation against what their hands are doing.

J/aty S/ate,B. i. C. B. ^.

Entrance of Christianity into Britain

The entrance of the Gospel was facilitated by the
Roman conquest. The entrance of the Gospel into this
island was so far from being done in an instant, or, si'mu/
et semel, that it was not res unius seculi, ' the product of
one age ; ' but was successively done, 7roX«/*epSs mi woXu-

rponas,

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Tpmas, 'at sundry times, and in divers manners.' So that
this extensive entrance of the Christian religion, gradually
insinuating itself, took up a century of years, from the
latter end of Tiberius, and so forwards.

Christianity entered not into this island like lightning,
but like light. None can behold this essay thereof in
the time of Tiberius, otherwise than a morning-star;
some forty years after, the day dawned ; and lastly, under
king Lucius, (that leuer-maure, or ' the great light,') the
sun of religion may be said to arise ; before which time,
the south of this island was sufficiently colonized by the
Romans, whereby commerce and civility ushered Chris-
tianity into Britain.

Appeal of Injured Innocence. Part I. 4. Animadv. onCh, Hist.

Chronology

As for the many chronological differences, where-
with the building of this Temple is encumbered, we
utterly decline them as alien from our subject. ' He
that meddleth (saith Solomon) with strife belonging not
to him, is like one that taketh a dog by the ears ' (Prov.
xxvi. 17). Chronology (all know) is a surly, churlish cur,
and hath bit many a man's fingers, who have causelessly
meddled therewith. Blame me not therefore, if wilHng
to keep mine own hands whole.

Pisgah Sights B, iii. C. ii. S. iii. 5.

Painstaking in Church History

Give me leave to add, that a greater volume of general
Church-History might be made with less time, pains, and
cost ; for in the making thereof, I had straw provided me

to

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to burn my brick ; I mean, could find what I needed, in
printed books. Whereas in this British Church-History,
I must (as well as I could) provide my own straw ; and
my pains have been scattered all over the land, by riding,
writing, going, sending, chiding, begging, praying, and
sometimes paying too, to procure manuscript materials.

Appeal of Injui'ed InnocencBy-^. i. Ans. to Inttoduction.

' Charity begins, but doth not end, at home.' The
same method was embraced in my Church-History. It
began with our own domestic affairs, to confute that ac-
cusation, commonly charged on Englishmen, that they
are very knowing in foreign parts, but ignorant in their
own country. I intended (God willing) to have pro-
ceeded to foreign churches ; but I am discouraged by the
causeless cavilling at what I have written already.

My Church-History beginneth (for point of time) in-
determinately, before the birth of Christ, (lapping in, or
folding over, part of Paganism,) and presenteth the dole-
ful condition of the Britons, whilst yet unconverted, and
grievous idolators.

Determinately, my History begins Anno Domini 37 ;
which is but four years after Christ's passion, and that is
very early, I assure you : Christianity in this island being
a timely riser, to be up so soon, and dressing itself, whilst
as yet (and many years after) rhost countries were fast
asleep in pagan impiety. idem.

Clothes

Clothes are for necessity ; warm clothes, for health ;
cleanly, for decency; lasting, for thrift; and rich, for

magnificence.

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magnificence. Now there may be a fault in their —
number, if too various — making, if too vain — matter,
if too costly — and mind of the wearer, if he takes pride

therein. ffoly state, B. iii. C. vi.

Vanity of Conferences

The parties, place, and time were agreed on ; who,
where, when they should dispute ; but in fine nothing
was effected. Yea, who ever knew conferences in so
great oppositions to ripen kindly, and bring any fruit
to perfection ? for many come rather for faction than
satisfaction, resolving to carry home the same opinions
they brought with them : an upright moderator will
scarce be found, who hangeth not to one side; the
place will be subject to suspicion, and hinder liberty ;
boldness and readiness of speech, with most (though not
most judicious) auditors, will bear away the bell from
solidity of arguments ; the passages in the disputing will
be partially reported, and both sides will brag of the
conquest ; so that the rent will be made worse, and more
spirits conjured up than allayed. miy War, b. m. c. 21.

A Timid Convert

King Edwin demurred to embrace Christianity. But
he communicated with the sagest of his council, with
whom he had daily debates, being loath rashly to rush
on a matter of such moment. And, truly, that religion
which is rather suddenly parched up than seasonably
ripened, doth commonly ungive afterwards. Yea, he
would sit long alone, making company to himself, and
silently arguing the case in his own heart, being partly

convinced

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convinced in his judgment of the goodness of the
Christian religion ; and yet he durst not entertain Truth,
a lawful king, for fear to displease Custom, a cruel

tyrant. Ch. Hist. B. H. Cent. vii. 40.

Contentment

Contentment consisteth not in adding more fuel, but
in taking away some fire. — Not in multiplying of wealth,
but in subtracting men's desires. Worldly riches, like
nuts, tear many clothes in getting them, spoil many teeth
in cracking them, but fill no belly with eating them,
obstructing only the stomach with toughness, and filhng
the guts with windiness. Yea, our souls may sooner
surfeit, than be satisfied, with earthly things. He that
at first thought ten thousand pounds too much for any
one man, will afterwards think ten millions too little for

himself. Holy state, B. iii. C. xvii. 7.

It is not a word-braving or scorning of all wealth in
discourse. — Generally those who boast most of content-
ment, have least of it. Their very boasting shows, that
they want something, and basely beg it, namely, com-
mendation. These in their language are like unto kites
in their flying, which mount in the air so scornfully, as if
they disdained to stoop for the whole earth, fetching
about many stately circuits. But what is the spirit these
conjurers, with so many circles, intend to raise ? A poor
chicken, or, perchance, a piece of carrion : and so the
height of the others' proud boasting will humble itself for
a httle base gain. id. b. iii. c. xvii. 2.

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A CONTENTED mind extendeth the smallest parish into
a diocese, and improveth the least benefice into a

bishopric. worthies : Ha-nts. Writers.

The Controversial Divine

He is not curious in searching matters of no moment.
—Captain Martin Forbisher fetched from the farthest
northern countries a ship's lading of mineral stones, (as
he thought,) which afterwards were cast out to mend the
highways. Thus are they served, and miss their hopes,
who, long seeking to extract hidden mysteries out of nice
questions, leave them off as useless at last. Antoninus
Pius, for his desire to search to the least differences, was
called cumini sector, ' the carver of cumin seed.' One
need not be so accurate ; for as soon shall one scour the
spots out of the moon, as all ignorance out of man.
When Eunomius the heretic vaunted, that he knew God
and his Divinity, St. Basil gravels him in twenty-one
questions about the body of an ant or pismire : so dark
is man's understanding ! I wonder, therefore, at the
boldness of some, who, as if they were lord-marshals of
the angels, place them in ranks and files. Let us not
believe them here, but rather go to heaven to confute

them. Holy state, B. ii. C. iv. ii.

The Convocation of 1640

In these distracted times a Parliament was called,
Monday, April 13th, with the wishes of all, and hopes
of most that were honest ; yet not without the fears of

some.

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some, who were wise, what would be the success thereof.
With this ParHament began a Convocation; all the
mediate transactions (for aught I can find out) are em-
bezzled ; and therein it was ordered, that none present
should take any private notes in the House ; whereby the
particular passages thereof are left at great uncertainty.
However, so far as I can remember, I will faithfully
relate ; being comforted with this consideration, that
generally he is accounted an unpartial arbitrator who
displeaseth both sides.

On the first day thereof, Tuesday, 14th, Dr. Turner,
chaplain to the archbishop of Canterbury, made a Latin
sermon in the choir of St. Paul's. His text : ' Behold, I
send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves,' Matt. x.
16. In the close of his sermon he complained, that all
bishops held not the reins of church-discipline with an
even hand, but that some of them were too easy and
remiss in the ordering thereof; whereby, while they
sought to gain to themselves the popular praise of meek-
ness and mildness, they occasionally cast on other bishops,
more severe than themselves, the unjust imputation of
rigour and tyranny ; and therefore he advised them all
with equal strictness to urge an universal conformity.
Sermon ended, we chose Dr. Stewart, dean of Chichester,
Prolocutor.

Next day of sitting, Friday, 17th, we met at West-
minster, in the chapel of king Henry VII, both the Houses
of Convocation being joined together; when the arch-
bishop of Canterbury entertained them with a Latin
speech, well nigh three quarters of an hour gravely
uttered, his eyes oft-times being but one remove from

weeping.

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weeping. It consisted most of generals, bemoaning the
distempers of the church ; but [he] concluded it with
a special passage, acquainting us how highly we were in-
debted to his majesty's favour so far intrusting the
integrity and ability of that Convocation, as to empower
them with his commission, the like whereof was not
granted for many years before, to alter old — or make
new — canons for the better government of the church.

Some wise men in the Convocation began now to be
jealous of the event of new canons ; yea, became fearful
of their own selves, for having too great power, lest it
should tempt them to be over-tampering in innovations.
They thought it better, that this Convocation, with its
predecessors, should be censured for laziness, and the
solemn doing of just nothing, rather than to run the
hazard by over-activity to do any thing unjust. For, as
waters long dammed up oft-times flounce, and fly out too
violently, when their sluices are pulled up, and they let
loose on a sudden ; so the judicious feared, lest the Con-
vocation, whose power of meddling with church-matters
had been bridled up for many years before, should now,
enabled with such power, over-act their parts, especially
in such dangerous and discontented times. Yea, they
suspected, lest those who formerly had out-run the canons
with their additional conformity (ceremonizing more then
was enjoined) now would make the canons come up to
them, making it necessary for others what voluntarily they
had pre-practised themselves.

Matters began to be in agitation, when on a sudden,
(May 5th,) the Parliament (wherein many things were
started, nothing hunted down, or brought to perfection)

was

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was dissolved. Whilst the immediate cause hereof is
commonly cast on the king and court, demanding so
many subsidies at once, England being as yet unac-
quainted with such prodigious payments ; the more con-
scientious look higher and remoter, on the crying sins of
our kingdom. And from this very time did God begin
to gather the twigs of that rod (a civil war) wherewith
soon after he intended to whip a wanton nation.

Expect not here of me an exemplification of such
canons as were concluded of in this Convocation ; partly,
because being printed they are public to every eye ; but
chiefly, because they were never put in practice, or
generally received. The men in Persia did never look on
their little ones till they were seven years old, bred till
that time with their mothers and nurses ; nor did they
account them in their genealogies amongst their children,
but amongst the more long-lived abortives, if dying before
seven years of age. I conceive such canons come not
under our cognizance, which last not (at least) an ap-
prenticeship of years in use and practice : and therefore
we decline the setting down the Acts of this Synod.

Ch. Hist. B. xi. S. 8. ii.

Courtesy

When one oifers us a courtesy, especially being our
superior, it is fitting we should requite him. It is a
noble conquest for to be overcome with wrongs ; but it
is a sign of a degenerous nature to be outvied with
courtesies ; and therefore, if one begin a kindness to us,
let us (if it lie in our power) pledge him in the same
nature. Ruth^ u. 4.

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There is great difference between painting a face and

not washing it. C&. Hist. B. vii. S. i. 32.

The Battle of Cressy

Coming to the town of Cressy, they found the Enghsh
fortified in a woody place, and attending in good array
to give battle. Whereat the French, falling from their
hopes, were extremely vexed, (a fool's Paradise is a wise
man's hell !) finding their enemies' faces to stand where

they looked for their backs War is a game wherein

very often that side loseth which layeth the odds.

Holy state, B. iv. C. 20.

Crossing the Line

Then cutting the Line, they saw the face of that heaven
which earth hideth from us, but therein only three stars
of the first greatness, the rest few and small compared to
our hemisphere ; as if God, on purpose, had set up the
best and biggest candles in that room wherein his civilest
guests are entertained. id. b. il c. 22.

The Cnisaders

The French, Dutch, Italian, and English were the four
elemental nations whereof this army was compounded :
of these the French were predominant ; they were the
cape merchants in this adventure. That nimble nation
first apprehended the project, and eagerly prosecuted
it. As their language wanteth one proper word to express
stand, so their natures mislike a settled, fixed posture,

and

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and delight in motion and agitation of business ; yea,
France (as being then best at leisure) contributed more
soldiers to this war than all Christendom besides.

Germany is slandered to have sent none to this war
at this first voyage; and that other pilgrims, passing
through that country, were mocked by the Dutch, and
called fools for their pains. But though Germany- was
backward at the first, yet afterwards it proved the main
Atlas of the war ; that nation, like a heavy bell, was long
a raising, but being got up made a loud sound.

Italy sent few out of her heart and middle provinces
nigh Rome. The pope was loath to adventure his
darlings into danger; those white boys were to stay at
home with his holiness their tender father : wherefore
he dispensed with them for going, as knowing how to
use their help nearer, and to greater profit. Peter's
patrimony must as well be looked to, as Christ's sepulchre.
But though the pope would spend none of his own fuel,
he burnt the best stakes of the emperor's hedge, and
furthered the imperial party to consume itself in this
tedious war.

England (the pope's packhorse in that age), which
seldom rested in the stable when there was any work
to be done, sent many brave men under Robert Duke of
Normandy, . . . Neither surely did the Irishmen's feet
stick in their bogs, though we find no particular mention
of their achievements. jfo^y War, b. ;. c. xiH.

The Crusade

Thus after a hundred ninety and four years ended the
Holy War ; for continuance the longest, for money spent

the

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Thomas the costliest, for bloodshed the cruelest, for pretences the
most pious, for the true intent the most politic the world

ever saw.

//oijf War, B. iv, C. xxxlii.

Curiosity

Curiosity is a kernel of the forbidden fruit, which still
sticketh in the throat of a natural man, sometimes to the

danger of his choking. worthies: Yorks. writers.

The Dead Sea

The Salt Sea was sullen and churlish, differing from
all other in the conditions thereof. David, speaking of
other seas, saith, ' There go the ships, and there is that
leviathan which Thou hast made to play therein ' (Psalm
civ. 26), so instancing in the double use of the sea for
ships to sail and fishes to swim in. But this is serviceable
for neither of these intents, no vessels sailing thereon,
the clammy water being a real remora to obstruct their
passage ; and the most sportful fishes dare not jest with
the edged tools of this Dead Sea ; which if unwillingly
hurried thereinto by the force of the stream of Jordan
they presently expire. Yea, it would kill that apocrypha-
dragon which Daniel is said to have choked with lumps
of pitch, fat, and hair, if he should be so adventurous
to drink of the waters thereof, so stifling and suffocating
is the nature of it. In a word, this sea hath but one
good quality, namely, that it entertains intercourse with
no other seas, which may be imputed to the providence
of nature debarring it from communion with the ocean,
lest otherwise it should infect other waters with its
malignity. Nor doth any healthful thing grow thereon,

save

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save only this wholesome counsel, which may be collected
from this pestiferous lake, for men to beware how they
provoke divine justice by their lustful and unnatural
enormities. pugah sight, b. h. c. xiu. s.

Thoughts on Death

To smell to a turf of fresh earth is wholesome for
the body ; no less are thoughts of mortality cordial to

the soul. Holy state, B. iv. C. xiii. 13.

Sudden Death

Lord be pleased to shake my clay cottage before
Thou throwest it down. May it totter a while before
it doth tumble. Let me be summoned before I am
surprised. Deliver me from sudden death. Not from
sudden death in respect of itself, for I care not how
short my passage be, so it be safe. Never any weary
traveller complained that he came too soon to his
journey's end. But let it not be sudden in respect of
me. Make me always ready to receive death. Thus no
guest comes unawares to him who keeps a constant

taole. Good Thoughts. Personal Meditations, xxv.

A Dedication

To the Right Worshipful Sir Richard Shugborough,
of Shugborough in Warwickshire

Master Ha ward returned this answer to queen Mary,
(demanding the causes of his coming to court), that it
was partly to see her Highness, and partly that her
Highness shbuld see him ; an answer, which, though
more witty than court-like, yea, more blunt than witty,
she took in good part.

H You

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You will not be offended at this my Dedication, partly
that I may know youi partly that I may be known unto
you. Besides, being informed that you love to have
your hospitable table handsomely attended with ancient
servitors, I presumed that this Section, containing much
of memorable antiquity, would not be unwelcome

unto you. a. Hist. b. v. S. Hi.

Dedication to Church History, Bk. xi

To the honohrabk Edward Montague, Esquire, son
and heir to the Right Honourable Edward Lord
Montague of Boughton

It is a strange casualty which an historian ^ reporteth
of five earls of Pembroke successively, (of the family
of Hastings,) that the father of them never saw his
son, — as born either in his absence or after his death.

I know not whether more remarkable, the fatality of
that — or the felicity of your — family ; where, in a lineal
descent, five have followed one another, the father not
only surviving to see his son of age, but also (yourself
excepted, who in due time may be) happy in their
marriage, hopeful in their issue.

These five have all been of the same Christian name.
Yet is there no fear of confusion, to the prejudice of
your pedigree, which heralds commonly in the like
cases complain of; seeing each of them being, as
eminent in their kind, so different in their eminency,
are sufficiently distinguished by their own character to
posterity.

' Camden's Britannia in Pembrokeshire.

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Of these, the first a judge ; for his gravity and learning
famous in his generation.

The second, a worthy patriot, and bountiful house-
keeper ; blessed in a numerous issue ; his four younger
sons affording a bishop to the church, a judge and peer
to the state, a commander to the camp, and an officer to
the court.

The third was the first baron of the house ; of whose
worth I will say nothing, because I can never say enough.

The fourth, your honourable lather ; who, because he
doth still (and may he long) survive, I cannot do the
right which I would to his merit, without doing wrong
(which I dare not) to his modesty.

You are the fifth in a direct line ; and let me acquaint
you with what the world expecteth (not to say requireth)
of you — to dignify yourself with some select and peculiar
desert ; so to be differenced from your ancestors, that
your memory may not be mistaken in the homonymy
of your Christian names ; which to me seemeth as im-
probable, as that a burning beacon (at a reasonable
distance) should not be beheld ; such the brightness
of your parts, and advantage of your education.

You was bred in that school which hath no superior
in England ; and successively in those two universities,
which have no equal in Europe. Such the stock of
your native perfection, before grafted with the foreign
accomplishments of your travels : so that men con-
fidently promise themselves to read the best, last, and
largest edition of Mercator's Atlas in your experience
and discourse.

That good God who went with you out of your native
H 2 country

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country, and since watched over you in foreign parts,
return with you in safety in due time, to his glory, and
your own good ; which is the daily desire of

Your Honour's most devoted servant,

Thomas Fuller.

Defender of the Faith

There is a tradition, that king Henry's fool, (though
more truly to be termed by another name,) coming into
the court, and finding the king transported with an
unusual joy, boldly asked of him the cause thereof; to
whom the king answered, it was because that the pope
had honoured him with a style more eminent than any
of his ancestors. ' O good Harry, ' quoth the fool, ' let
thou and I defend one another, and let the faith alone
to defend itself ' a. Hut. b. v. s. l 23.

Deformity

Mock not at those who are misshapen by nature. —
There is the same reason of the poor and of the de-
formed; he that despiseth them despiseth God that
made them. A poor man is a picture of God's own
making, but set in a plain frame, not gilded ; a deforme
man is also his workmanship, but not drawn with even
lines and lively colours : the former not for want of
wealth — as the latter not for want of skill — but both for
the pleasure — of the Maker. As for Aristotle, who
would have parents expose their deformed children to
the wide world without caring for them, his opinion
herein, not only deformed but most monstrous, deserves
rather to be exposed to the scorn and contempt of all

nien. Holy state, B. iii. C. xiv. 3.

Delays

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Delays Dangerous

The English ambassador some years since prevailed
so far with the Turkish emperor, as to persuade him to
hear some of our English music, from which (as from
other liberal sciences) both he and his nation were
naturally averse. But it happened that the musicians
were so long in tuning their instruments, that the great
Turk, distasting their tediousness, went away in dis-
content before their music began. I am afraid that the
differences and dissensions betwixt Christian churches
(being so long in reconciling their discords) will breed in
pagans such a disrelish of our religion, as they will not
be invited to attend thereunto.

Good Thoughts in Bad Times, Hist. Apf. i.

Democracy

So irresistible is the tyranny of a tumult ; and, there-
fore, it may be all good men's prayers, that the people
may either never understand thfeir own power, or always

use it aright. Holy state, B. V. C. xviii. 7.

Men who would not have magistrates compel them,
— query, whether, if they had power, they would not
compel magistrates ? id. b. v. c. xi.

Detraction

What a monster might be made out of the best
beauties in the world, if a limner should leave what is
lovely, and only collect into one picture what he findeth
amiss in them ! I know there be white teeth in the
blackest Black-Moor, and a black bill in the whitest swan.

Worst

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Worst men have something to be commended, best men
something in them to be condemned. Only to insist on
men's faults to render them odious, is no ingenuous
employment. God, we know, so useth his fan, that he
keepeth the corn, but driveth away the chaff. But who
is he that winnoweth so, as to throw away the good grain,
and retain the chaff only ? ch. Hist. b. x. s. ii. 2.

Cornish Diamonds

These of themselves sound high, till the addition of
Cornish subtracteth from their valuation. In blackness
and hardness they are far short of the Indian : yet, set
with a good foil (advantaged hypocrisy passeth often for
sincerity) may at the first sight deceive no unskilful
lapidary. As their lustre is less than Orient diamonds,
so herein they exceed them, that nature hath made both
their face and their dressing, by whom they are pointed
and polished. But enough hereof, the rather because
some, from the Latin names of jewels, Jocalia, ' things
to be jested and played with,' and BaubellcB, 'things
which are trifles and baubles,' spitefully collect that
stones, accounted precious, are more beholding to the
consent of fancy, than their own intrinsic worth, for their

high valuation. Worthies: Commall. Natural ComtnoditUs.

A Diary

An exact Diary is a window into his heart who
maketh it ; and, therefore, pity it is that any should look
therein, but either the friends of the party, or such
ingenuous foes as will not (especially in things doubtful)
make conjectural comments to his disgrace.

Ch. Hist. B. xi. S. V. 79.

Discretion

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Discretion

Discretion puts a difference betwixt things absolutely
necessary to salvation to be done and believed, and those
which are of a second sort and lower form, wherein
more liberty and latitude is allowed. In maintaining
whereof, the stiffness of the judgment is abated, and
suppled with charity towards his neighbour. The luke-
warm man eyes only his own ends and particular profit ;
the npoderate man aims at the good of others, and unity

of the church. Holy state, B. Hi. C. XX. 3.

Discussion

As no cloth can be woven except the woof and the
warp be cast cross one to another, so discourse will
not be maintained without some opposition for the time.

Id. B. V. C. 6.

Disparity of Station

He that eats cherries with noblemen shall have his eyes
spirted out with the stones. — This outlandish proverb hath
in it an English truth, that they who constantly converse
with men far above their estates, shall reap shame and
loss thereby. If thou payest nothing, they will count
thee a sucker, no branch ; a wen, no member of their
company. If in payments thou keepest pace with them,
their long strides will soon tire thy short legs. The
beavers in New-England, when some ten of them
together draw a stick to the building of their lodging, set
the weakest beavers to the lighter end of the log, and the
strongest take the heaviest part thereof: whereas men
often lay the greatest burden on the weakest back ; and

great

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great persons, to teach meaner men to learn their
distance, take pleasure to make them pay for their
company. I except such men, who, having some
excellent quality, are gratis very welcome to their
betters ; such an one, though he pays not a penny of
the shot, spends enough in lending them his time and

discourse. Holy state, B. iii. C. v. 6.

Discoverers

The lord Bacon would have rewards given to those
men who, in the quest of natural experiments, make
probable mistakes, both because they are industrious
therein, and because their aberrations may prove in-
structions to others after them ; and to speak plainly, an
ingenious miss is of more credit than a bungling casual

nit. Good Thoughts. Mixt Contemp. on Better Times, 25.

Disputes Ended

Whilst mutual animosities were heightened betwixt
the opposers and assertors of the Liturgy, Providence
put a period for a time to that controversy in England.
Such who formerly would not — soon after durst not — use
the Common Prayer ; mass and popery being set up by
queen Mary in the room thereof. Thus when children
fall out and fight about the candle, the parents, coming
in and taking it away, leave them to decide the differences
in the dark. ch. Hist. b. vii. ad fin.

Eels of Cambridgeshire

Which, though they be found in all shires in England,
yet are most properly treated of here, as most, first, and

best

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best ; the courts of the kings of England being thence
therewith anciently supplied. I will not engage in the
controversy whether they be bred by generation as other
fish ; or equivocally, out of putrefaction ; or both ways,
which is most probable ; seeing some have ventured to
know the distinguishing marks betwixt the one and other.
I know the silver eels are generally preferred, and I could
wish they loved men but as well as men love them,
that I myself might be comprised within the compass ,of
that desire. They are observed to be never out of
season (whilst other fishes have their set times) ; and the
biggest eels are ever esteemed the best.

Worthies : Camis. Natural Commodities.

Economy

Let us spare where we may, that so we may spend
where we should.

Eccentricity

Though such spheres and orbs which agree in one
centre may proportionably move one within another ; yet
such as are eccentrical can never observe equal distance
in their motion, but will sag aside to grind and grate one
the other. ch. Hist. b. ix. s. 3. 2.

Ely Minster [a. d. 1660]
This presenteth itself afar off to the eye of the traveller,
and on all sides, at great distance, not only maketh a
promise, but giveth earnest of the beauty thereof. The
lanthorn therein, built by Bishop Hotham, (wherein the
labour of twenty years, and five thousand ninety-four
pounds eighteen shillings ten pence half-penny farthing

was

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was expended), is a masterpiece of architecture. When
the bells ring, the wood-work thereof shaketh and gapeth
(no defect, but perfection of structure), and exactly
chocketh into the joints again ; so that it may pass for
the lively emblem of the sincere Christian, who, though
he hath motum trepidationis, of fear and trembling, stands
firmly fixed on the basis of a true faith. Rare also is
the art in the chapel of Saint Mary's, the pattern or
parent of that in King's College in Cambridge, though
here (as often elsewhere) it hath happened, the child
hath outgrown the father. Nor must the chapel of
Bishop West be forgotten, seeing the master-masons of
king James, on serious inspection, found finer stone-work
herein, than in king Henry the Seventh's chapel at
Westminster.

It grieved me lately to see so many new lights in this
church (supernumerary windows more than were in the
first fabric), and the whole structure in a falling condition,
except some good men's charity seasonably support it.
Yet was I glad to hear a great antiquary employed to
transcribe and preserve the monuments in that church, as
all others in the late-drowned land. And it is hard to
say, which was the better office, whether of those who
newly have dried them from the inundation of water, or of
those who shall drain them from the deluge of oblivion
by perpetuating their antiquities to posterity.

Worthies : Camb. Natural Commodities.

New England Emigrants

Now if any do demand of me my opinion concerning
our brethren which of late left this kingdom to advance

a plantation

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a plantation in New England ; surely I think, as St. Paul
said concerning virgins, he had ' received no command-
ment from the Lord ' ; so I cannot find any just warrant
to encourage men to undertake this removal ; but think
rather the counsel best that king Joash prescribed to
Amaziah, 'Tarry at home.' Yet as for those that are
already gone, far be it from us to conceive them to be
such to whom we may not say, ' God speed,' as it is in
2 John verse 10 : but let us pity them, and pray for them ;
for sure they have no need of our mocks, which I am
afraid have too much of their own miseries. I conclude
therefore of the two Englands, what our Saviour saith of
the two wines, Luke v. 39 : ' No man having tasted of
the old presently desireth the new : for he saith, The old
is better.' Ruth. ch. i. ^.

Envy

That dark shadow, ever waiting on a shining merit.

Holy State, B. ii. C. 3.

Epitaphs

The shortest, plainest, and truest epitaphs are best.
— I say, 'the shortest'; for when a passenger sees a
chronicle written on a tomb, he takes it on trust, some
great man lies there buried, without taking pains to
examine who he is. Mr. Camden in his 'Remains'
presents us with examples of great men that had little
epitaphs. And when once I asked a witty gentleman,
an honoured friend of mine, what epitaph was fittest
to be written on Mr. Camden's tomb ; ' Let it be,' said
he, ' Camden's Remains.' id. b. Hi. c. xiv. 5.

Evil

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Evil Speaking

For as the basest rascal will presume to miscall the
best lord, when far enough out of his hearing ; so slan-
derous tongues think they may run riot in railing on
any, when once got out of the distance of time, and
reach of confutation. ff^iy state, b. iv. c. xiv.

The Exchange

Yet, because much of mutability is imported in the
word Change, it may be a fit remembrancer to merchants
meeting here, not to build their hopes of perpetuity on
what is so subject to vicissitude and alteration. Well
may this place be termed the Change, where poor men
so soon become rich by good success, and rich men poor
by losses and casualties unexpected !

Worthies: London. Buildings.

Experience

Surely they leap best in their providence forward, who
fetch their rise farthest backward in their experience.

Holy State, B. iv. C. xvii. 3.

The Falsehood of Extremes

It happeneth in all heights and heats of oppositions,
as in horse-races ; wherein the rider, if he doth not go
beyond the post, cannot come to the post so as to win
the prize : for, being upon the speed, he must go beyond
it that he come to it, though afterwards he may rein and
turn his horse back again to the very place of the mark.
Thus men being, in the heat of contest, upon the very

career

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career of their souls, because of their passions, cannot
stop short at the very mark they aim at, but some ex-
travagancies must be indulged to human infirmity, which
in their reduced thoughts they will correct and amend ;
as some Protestants, no doubt, now lashing out so far in
their language, retrenched them afterwards to a just pro-
portion of truth. c&. Hist. B. V. S. iv. 29.

Faith and Love

And here such as brought the man sick of the palsy
not finding a door on the floor made one on the roof
(love will creep, but faith will climb where it cannot go)
let him down with cords, his bed bringing him in, which
presently he carried out, being perfectly cured (Mark

ii. l). Pisgak Sight, B.ii. C. iv. 15.

Of Fame

Fame is the echo of actions, resounding them to the
world, save that the echo repeats only the last part, but
fame relates all, and often more than all.

Holy State, B. iii. C. xxiii. 8.

A FOND fame is best confuted by neglecting it.— By
' fond ' understand such a report as is rather ridiculous,
than dangerous, if believed. It is not worth the making
a schisni betwixt newsmongers to set up an anti-fame
against it. Yea, seriously and studiously to endeavour
to confute it, will grace the rumour too much, and give
suspicion that indeed there is some reality in it. What
madness were it to plant a piece of ordnance to beat

down

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down an aspen leaf, which, having always the palsy, will
at last fall down of itself! And fame hath much of the
scold in her ; the best way to silence her is, to be silent,
and then at last she will be out of breath with blowing
her own trumpet. ffoiy state, b. w. c. xxKi. s.

Familists

These Familists (besides many monstrosities they
maintained about their communion with God) attenuated
all Scriptures into allegories ; and, under pretence to turn
them into spirit, made them airy, empty, nothing. They
counterfeited revelations ; and those, not explicatory or
applicatory of Scripture, (such may and must be allowed
to God's servants in all ages,) but additional thereunto,
and of equal necessity and infallibility to be believed
therewith. In a word, as in the small-pox, (pardon my
plain and homely, but true and proper, comparison,)
when at first they kindly come forth, every one of them
may severally and distinctly be discerned ; but when once
they run and matter, they break one into another, and
can no longer be dividedly discovered; so though at
first there was a real difference betwixt Familists, Enthu-
siasts, Antinomians, (not to add high-flown Anabaptists,)
in their opinions, yet, (process of time plucking up the
pales betwixt them,) afterwards they did so interfere
amongst themselves, that it is almost impossible to bank
and bound their several absurdities, ch. nut. b. ix. s. iu. 38.

Fancy

It is an inward sense of the soul, for a while retaining
and examining things brought in thither by the common

sense.

Ouain^ Coun0ef0

II I

sense. It is the most boundless and restless faculty of
the soul : for whilst the understanding and the will are
kept as it were in libercL cusfodid to their objects of verum
ef bonum, the fancy is free from all engagements. It digs
without spade, sails without ship, flies without wings,
builds without charges, fights without bloodshed, in a
moment striding from the centre to the circumference of
the world, by a kind of omnipotency creating and an-
nihilating things in an instant ; and things divorced in
nature are married in fancy, as in a lawful place. It is
also most restless : whilst the senses are bound, and reason
in a manner asleep, fancy, like a sentinel, walks the round,
ever working, never wearied. The chief diseases of the
fancy are, either that they are too wild and high-soaring,
or else too low and grovelling, or else too desultory and
over-voluble.

Of the first :—

If thy fancy be but a little too rank, age itself will cor-
rect it. — To lift too high is no fault in a young horse,
because with travelling he will mend it, for his own ease.
Thus, lofty fancies in young men will come down of
themselves, and, in process of time, the overplus will
shrink to be but even measure.

Take the advice of a faithful friend, and submit thy in-
ventions to his censure. — When thou pennest an oration,
let him have the power of Index Exfurgatorius, to ex-
punge what he pleaseth ; and do not thou, hke a fond
mother, cry if the child of thy brain be corrected for
playing the wanton. Mark the arguments and reasons of
his alterations, — why that phrase least proper, this passage
more cautious and advised; and, after a while, thou

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shalt perform the place in thine own person, and not go
out of thyself for a censurer.

If thy fancy be too low and humble, —

Let thy judgment be king, but not tyrant, over it, to
condemn harmless, yea, commendable, conceits. — Some,
for fear their orations should giggle, will not let them
smile. Give it also liberty to rove, for it will not be ex-
travagant. There is no danger that weak folks, if they
walk abroad, will straggle far, as wanting strength.

Acquaint thyself with reading poets, for there fancy is
in her throne. — ^And in time the sparks of the author's
wit will catch hold on the reader, and inflame him with
love, liking, and desire of imitation. I confess, there is
more required to teach one to write than to see a copy.
However, there is a secret force of fascination in reading
poems to raise and provoke fancy.

If thy fancy be over-voluble, then —

Whip this vagrant home to the first object whereon it
should be settled. — Indeed, nimbleness is the perfection
of this faculty ; but levity the bane of it. Great is the
difference betwixt a swift horse, and a skittish that will
stand on no ground. Such is the ubiquitary fancy, which
will keep long residence on no one subject, but is so
courteous to strangers, that it ever welcomes that conceit
most which comes last ; and new species supplant the old
ones, before seriously considered. If this be the fault of
thy fancy, I say, whip it home to the first object whereon
it should be settled. This do as often as occasion re-
quires, and by degrees the fugitive servant will learn to
abide by his work without running away.

Holy state, B. iii. C. ii.

Faults.

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Faiilts

Here are four faults of the archbishop mustered up by
me ; and is it not a thin muster indeed ? When a gentle-
man was told, that he would be much ashamed if all his
faults were written in his forehead ; he (in my mind)
modestly and wittily replied, that he should be right glad
that his face could hold them all ! Happy is that man
whose faults may be reduced to the number of four !

App^ Inj. Inn. Pt. iii. B. xi. 319.

Fertile in Resources

He is no fox whose den hath but one hole.

Holy State, B. iv. C. iii.

Rarity of Fires at Cambridge

Sixteen years did students continue in University
Hall on their own charges ; but a casual fire reduced
their House to ashes. Here, by the way, whosoever
shall consider in both Universities the ill contrivance of
many chimneys, hollowness of hearths, shallowness of
tunnels, carelessness of coals and candles, catchingness
of papers, narrowness of studies, late reading and long
watching of scholars, cannot but conclude, that an
especial Providence preserveth those places. How small
a matter hath sometimes made a partition betwixt the fire
and the fuel ! Thus an hair's breadth, fixed by a Divine
finger, shall prove as effectual a separation from danger
as a mile's distance. And although both Universities
have had sad accidents in this kind, yet neither in

I number

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number nor nature (since the Reformation) so destructive
as in other places : so that, blessed be God ! they have
been rather scare-fires than hurt-fires unto them.

Ifzsi. Camh. S. ii. 40.

First and Last

Thus, as the last dog most commonly catcheth the
hare which other dogs have turned and tired before ; so
such who succeed in dangerous and difficult enterprises,
generally reap the benefit of the adventures of those who

went before them. Worthies: Derhysh. Seamen.

Fitness of Things

A MAN ought to be like a cunning actor, who, if he be
enjoined to represent the person of some prince or noble-
man, does it with a grace and comeliness ; if, by and by,
he be commanded to lay tl\at aside, and play the beggar,
he does that as willingly and as well. But, as it happened
in a tragedy, (to spare naming the person and place),
that one, being to act Theseus (in Hercules Fureni)
coming out of hell, could not for a long time be per-
suaded to wear old sooty clothes proper for his part, but
would needs come out of hell in a white satin doublet ;
so we are generally loath, and it goes against flesh and
blood, to live in a low and poor estate, but would fain
act in richer and handsomer clothes, till grace, with
much ado, subdues our rebellious stomachs to God's

will. Holy state, B. iii. C. xvii. 9.

Flowers

The Dutch brought hither with them, not only their
profitable crafts, but pleasureable curiosities. They were

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the first who advanced the use and reputation of flowers
in this city. A flower is the best-complexioned grass (as
a pearl is the best-coloured clay) ; and daily it weareth
God's livery, for ' He clotheth the grass in the field.'
Solomon himself is outbraved therewith, as whose
gallantry only was adopted, and on theirs innate, and
in them. In the morning (when it groweth up) it is
a lecture of Divine Providence. In the evening (when
it is cut down withered) it is a lecture of human mor-
tality.

Single flowers are observed much sweeter than the
double ones (poor may be more fragrant in God's nostrils
than the rich) ; and let florists assign the cause thereof,
whether because the sun doth not so much dry the
intricacies of such flowers which are duplicated. . .

In my judgment those flowers carry it clearly, which
acquit themselves to a double sense, sight and smell ; for
though in some things it may be true, optimi qua minimi
olent, yet in flowers (besides a negation of an ill) the
position of a good scent is justly required.

Worthies : Norwich. Natural Comwodiiies .

Fog and Tempest

Divine providence is remarkable in ordering, that a
fog and a tempest never did, nor can, meet together in
nature. For as soon as a fog is fixed the tempest is
allayed ; and as soon as a tempest doth arise the fog is
dispersed. This is a great mercy ; for otherwise such
small vessels as boats and barges, which want the conduct
of the card and compass, would irrecoverably be lost.

How sad, then, is the condition of many sectaries in
I 2 our

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our age ; which in the same instant have a fog of
ignorance in their judgments, and a tempest of violence
in their ailections, being too blind to go right, and yet
too active to stand still.

Good Thoughts. Mixt Cmtempl. on Better Times, P. i!. 5.

A Fool

One may get wisdom by looking on a fool. — In be-
holding him, think how much thou art beholden to Him
that suffered thee not to be like him. Only God's
pleasure put a difference betwixt you. And consider,
that a fool and a wise man are alike both in the starting-
place — their birth, and at the post — their death; only
they differ in the race of their lives.

Holy State, B. iii. C. xii. 4.

Over Estimate of Foreigners

Indeed, it is a humour of our English, strangely to
admire strangers, believing invisible perfections in them,
above those of our land : a quality commendable in our
countrymen, whilst inclining them to hospitality, but
sometimes betraying their credulity to be thereby danger-
ously deluded. ch. Hist. b. ^. s. vi. ^.

Fox's Acts and Monuments

And because I have mentioned that book, wherein
this lady's virtues are so highly commended, I am not
ignorant that, of late, great disgrace hath been thrown
on that author and his worthy work, as being guilty of
much falsehood ; chiefly, because sometimes he makes
Popish doctors, well known to be rich in learning, to

reason

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reason very poorly ; and the best fencers of their schools,
worsted and put out of their play by some country poor
Protestants. But let the cavillers hereat know, that it is
a great matter to have the odds of the weapon (God's
word) on their side ; — not to say any thing of super-
natural assistance given them. Sure, for the main, his
book is a worthy work, (wherein the reader may rather
leave than lack,) and seems to me, like ^tna, always
burning, whilst the smoke hath almost put out the eyes
of the adverse party ; and these Fox's ' fire-brands ' have
brought much annoyance to the Romish 'Philistines.'
But it were a miracle, if, in so voluminous a work, there
were nothing to be justly reproved ; so great a pome-
granate, not having any rotten kernel, must only grow in
Paradise. And though, perchance, he held the beam at
the best advantage for the Protestant party to weigh
down, yet, generally, he is a true writer, and never
wilfully deceiveth, though he may sometimes be un-
willingly deceived. Holy state, B. iv. C. xiv.

French and English

I KNOW not whether his observation, with the reason
thereof, be worth the inserting, who first took notice,
that our cattle for food are English when feeding in the
field, but French when fed on in a family.

English. I. Sheep. 2. Ox. 3. Calf.
French, 1. Mutton. 2. Beef. 3. Veal.

4. Hog. 5. Pig.
4. Bacon. 5. Pork,

Whereof he assigned this reason, that, after the Norman
Conquest, the French so tyrannized over the English
tenants, that they forced them to keep and feed their

cattle ;

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cattle ; but the Monsieurs ate all their good meat after

it was slaughtered. Worthies: Bucks. Natural Commodities.

False Friends

False friends will forsake us in time of adversity.
He that believeth that all those who smile on him
and promise fair in time of prosperity will perform it in
time of his want, may as well believe that all the leaves
that be on trees at Midsummer will hang there as fresh
and as fair on New Year's Day.

Coll. Serm. Goodfrotn Bad Friends^ 2 Sam. xv. 31.

Fuller's Name

I HAD rather my name should make many causelessly
merry, than any justly sad; and seeing it lieth equally
open and obvious to praise and dispraise, I shall as
little be elated when flattered, 'Fuller of wit and
learning,' as dejected when flouted, ' Fuller of folly
and ignorance.' App. inf. inn. Pt. Ui. b. x!. 314.

A Funeral Sermon

When one was to preach the funeral sermon of a most
vicious and generally-hated person, all wondered what
he would say in his praise; the preacher's friends
fearing — his foes hoping — that, for his fee, he would
force his conscience to flattery. 'For one thing,' said
the minister, ' this man is to be spoken well of by all ;
and for another thing he is to be spoken ill of by none.
The first is. Because God made him ; the second. Because
he is dead.' id. Pt. iii. b. xi. 324.

The

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The Good General

He hath gained skill in his place by long experience.
— Not beginning to lead others, before himself ever
knew to follow; having never before (except in cock-
matches) beheld any battles. . . . He makes his flying
enemy a bridge of gold, and disarms them of their best
weapon ; — which is, necessity to fight, whether they will
or no. Men forced to a battle against their intention,
often conquer beyond their expectation. Stop a flying
coward, and he will turn his legs into arms, and lay about
him manfully; whereas open him a passage to escape,
and he will quickly shut up his courage.

Haiy State, B. iv. C. xvii.

Men have a touchstone whereby to try gold, but gold
is the touchstone whereby to try men. rd. b. iv. c. vH. 5.

A Passing Generation

Thus, when a generation of contemporary persons
begins to crack, it quickly falls ; and the leases of their
clay cottage, commencing, it seems, much from the same
date, at the same term did expire. ch. HUt. b. ix. s. in. 27.

Poor Gentlemen

Gold, though the most solid and heavy of metals, yet
may be beaten out so thin as to be the lightest and
slightest of all things. Thus nobility, though in itself
most honourable, may be so attenuated through the

smallness

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smallness of means, as thereby to grow neglected :
which makes our nobleman to practise Solomon's pre-
cept : ' Be diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and
look well to thine herds ; for the crown doth not endure
to every generation.' (Prov. xxvii. 23.) If not ike crown,
much less the coronet; and good husbandry may as well
stand with great honour, as breadth may consist with

height. Holy state, B. iv. C. xii. 3.

The Ancient Gentry

And here under favour I conceive, that if a strict
inquiry should be made after the ancient gentry of
England, most of them would be found amongst such
middle-sized persons as are above two hundred, and
beneath a thousand pounds of annual revenue. It was
the motto of wise Sir Nicholas Bacon, mediocria firma,
' moderate things are most lasting.' Men of great estates,
in national broils, have smarted deeply for their visible
engagements, to the ruin of their families, whereof we
have had too many sad experiments, whilst such persons
who are moderately mounted above the level of common
people into a competency, above want and beneath envy,
have, by God's blessing on their frugality, continued
longest in their conditions, entertaining all alterations
in the state with the less destructive change unto them-
selves. Worthies: C. xv. Sluriffs.

It happened in the reign of king James, when Henry
Earl of Huntingdon was lieutenant of Leicestershire,
that a labourer's son in that county was pressed into

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the wars, as I take it to go over with count Mansfield.
The old man at Leicester requested his son might be
discharged, as being the only staff of his age, who by
his industry maintained him and his mother. The
earl demanded his name, which the man for a long
time was loath to tell, as suspecting it a fault for so
poor a man to confess a truth. At last he told his name
was Hastings. ' Cousin Hastings,' said the earl, ' we
cannot all be top branches of the tree, though we all
spring from the same root : your son my kinsman shall
not be pressed.' So good was the meeting of modesty
in a poor, with courtesy in an honourable person, and
gentry I believe in both. And I have reason to believe,
that some who justly own the surnames and blood of
Bohuns, Mortimers, and Plantagenets, though ignorant
of their own extractions, are hid in the heap of common
people ; where they find that under a thatched cottage,
which some of their ancestors could not enjoy in a leaded
castle, contentment with quiet and security.

Itiefn,

Giants

There need no other evidence be produced to prove
the fruitfulness of their country than the vastness of
their bodies, whereof the rankness of their ground must
be allowed a partial cause. Our English proverb saith,
' Show me not the meat, but show me the man.' The
well battling of the giants bred in Philistia (chiefly in
Gath their seminary), being heteroclites, redundants
from the rules of nature, sufficiently attests the fertility
of their soil. Some of these giants had their hands

branching,

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branching out into six fingers, though who had one
fewer had enough to kill them. Let naturalists curiously
inquire whether or no this stock of giants be wholly
spent in our age, and if so, what the true causes thereof,
whether intemperance of diet, or over-early marriage,
seeing every one that is raw to work count themselves
ripe to wed. Let them consult whether nature hath
not some other way recompensed in our age that want of
strength by giving them quicker wits, whereas in volu-
minous men commonly there is much empty margin.

Pisgah Sight, B. ii. C. x. 25.

Goats

An he-goat is recounted by wise Agur amongst ' the
four creatures which are comely in going.' Yea, if that
ornamental excrement which groweth beneath the chin
be the standard of wisdom, they carry it from Aristotle
himself.

Plenty of these are bred in Wales, especially in Mont-
gomeryshire, which mindeth me of a pleasant passage,
durirjg the restraint of the lady Elizabeth. When she
was so strictly watched by Sir Henry Benefield that
none were admitted access unto her, a goat was espied
by a merry fellow (one of the warders) walking along
with her. Whereupon, taking the goat on his shoulders,
he in all haste hurried him to Sir Henry. 'I pray,
Sir,' said he, ' examine this fellow, whom I found walking
with her grace; but what talk they had I know not,
not understanding his language. He seems to me a
stranger, and I believe a Welshman by his freize coat.'

Worthies : Wales. Natural Commodities.

Good

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Good from Evil

It is usual with God's wisdom and goodness to suffer
vice to sound the first alarm to that fight wherein virtue is
to have the victory. ch. Hist. b. v. s. iii. 31.

Some Great Men of low Extraction

If inquiry be made into all men's descents, it would be
found true what the poet doth observe :

' The first of all thine ancestors of yore
Was but a shepherd, or — I say no more.'

Besides, it plainly proveth the properness of their parts,
and tallness of their industry, who thereby, and by God's
blessing thereon, reached so high preferment, though
disadvantaged by standing on so low ground of their

extraction. Worthies; C. xxiv.

Groans

How comes it to pass that groans, made in men by
God's spirit, cannot be uttered ? I find two reasons
thereof First, because those groans are so low and
little, so faint, frail, and feeble, so next to nothing, these
still-born babes only breathe without crying.

Secondly, because so much diversity, yea, contrariety
of passion, is crowded within the compass of a groan,
they are stayed from being expressive, and the groans
become unutterable.

How happy is their condition who have God for their
interpreter? who not only understands what they do,
but what they would say. Daniel could tell the meaning

of

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of the dream which Nebuchadnezzar had forgotten.
God knows the meaning of those groans which never
as yet knew their own meaning, and understands the
sense of those sighs which never understood themselves.

Good Thoughts in Worse Times, Prayers 4.

Gunpowder Plot

They fall a-working in the vault. Dark the place, in
the depth of the earth; dark the time, in the dead of
the night; dark the design, all the actors therein con-
cealed by oath from others, and thereby combined
amongst themselves. O ! how easy is any work, when
high merit is conceived the wages thereof ! In piercing
through the wall nine feet thick, they erroneously con-
ceived that they thereby hewed forth their own way to
heaven. But they digged more with their silver in an
hour, than with their iron in many days ; namely, when
discovering a cellar hard by, they hired the same, and
these pioneers saved much of their pains by the
advantage thereof And now all things were carried so
secretly, no possibility of any detection, seeing the actors
themselves had solemnly sworn that they would not —
and all others might as safely swear they could not —
make any discovery thereof.

But so it fell out, that the sitting of the parliament was
put off from time to time ; namely, from the seventh of
February (whereon it was first appointed to meet,) it
was adjourned till the fifth of October, and afterward
from the fifth of October, put off till the fifth of
November ; and accordingly their working in the vault,
which attended the motion of the parliament, had several

distinct

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distinct intermissions, and resumptions thereof; as if
Divine Providence had given warning to these traitors,
by the slow proceeding and oft adjourning of the
parliament, mean time seriously to consider what they
went about^ and seasonably to desist from so damnable
a design, as suspicious at last it would be ruined which
so long had been retarded. But no taking-off their
wheels will stay those chariots from drowning which
God hath decreed shall be swallowed in the Red Sea.

' Behold ! here is fire and wood ; but where is the lamb
for the burnt-offering ? ' Alas ! a whole flock of lambs
were not far off, all appointed to the slaughter. The
king, prince Henry, peers, bishops, judges, knights, and
burgesses, all designed to destruction. 'Let me smite
him,' said Abishai of Saul, * even at once, and I will not
smite him the second time.' So here, a blow so sound,
secret, and sudden, was intended it would not need
iteration : Once and ever, the first act would finish all in
an instant. But, thanks be to God, nothing was blown
up but the treason, or brought to execution but the
traitors. ch. Hist. b. x. s. h. 28.

Hampshire

A HAPPY country in the four elements, if culinary fire
in courtesy may pass for one, with plenty of the best
wood for the fuel thereof. Most pure and piercing
the air of this shire ; and none in England hath more
plenty of clear and fresh rivulets of troutful water ; not
to speak of the friendly sea conveniently distanced
from London. As for the earth, it is both fair and
fruitful, and may pass for an expedient betwixt pleasure

anci

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and profit; whefre, by mutual consent, they are mod-
erately accommodated. IVortkies: Hants. Natural Commodities.

Hampshire Hogs

Hampshire hogs are allowed by all for the best bacon,
being our English Westphalian, and which, well ordered,
hath deceived the most judicious palates. Here the
swine feed in the forest on plenty of acorns (men's meat
in the golden, hogs' food in this iron age) ; which, going
out lean, return home fat, without either care or cost
of their owners. Nothing but fulness stinteth their
feeding on the mast falling from the trees, where also
they lodge at liberty (not pent up, as in other places,
to stacks of peas), which some assign the reason of
the fineness of their flesh ; which, though not all glare
(where no banks of lean can be seen for the deluge
of fat), is no less delicious to the taste, and more whole-
some for the stomach. idem.

Hampshire Honey

Hampshire hath the worst and best honey in England ;
worst, on the heath, hardly worth five pounds the barrel ;
best, in the champaign, where the same quantity will well
nigh be sold for twice as much. And it is generally
observed, the finer the wheat and wool, both which
are very good in this county, the purer the honey of that
place.

Honey is useful for many purposes, especially that
honey which is the lowest in any vessel. For it is an
old and true rule, ' the best oil is in the top ; the best
wine in the middle ; and the best honey in the bottom.

It

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It openeth obstructions, cleareth the breast and lights
from those humours which fall from the head, looseneth
the belly ; with many other sovereign qualities, too many
to be reckoned up in a winter's day.

However, we may observe three degrees, or kinds
rather, of honey : — i. Virgin honey, which is the purest,
of a late swarm which never bred bees. — 2. Chaste
honey, for so I may term all the rest which is not
sophisticated with any addition. — 3. Harlot honey, as
which is adulterated with meal and other trash mingled
therewith.

Of the first and second sort I understand the counsel
of Solomon, ' My son, eat honey, for it is good ; ' good
absolutely in the substance, though there may be excess
in the quantity thereof. idem.

Hampshire Wax

This is the cask, where honey is the liquor ; and,
being yellow by nature, is by art made white, red, and
green, which I take to be the dearest colours, especially
when appendant on parchment. Wax is good by day
and by night, when it aflfordeth light, for sight the
clearest ; for smell the sweetest ; for touch the cleanliest.
Useful in law to seal instruments ; and in physic, to
mollify sinews, ripen and dissolve ulcers, &c. , Yea, the
ground and foundation of all cere-cloth (so called from
cera) is made of wax. idem.

Happiness and Heaven

If a herd of kine should nieet together to fancy and
define happiness, they would place it to consist in fine

pastures,

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pastures, sweet grass, clear water, shadowy groves, con-
stant Summer ; but if any Winter, then warm shelter,
and dainty hay, with company after their kind ; counting
these low things the highest happiness, because their
conceit can reach no higher. Little better do the
Heathen poets describe heaven, paving it with pearl,
and roofing it with stars, filling it with gods and goddesses,
and allowing them to drink (as if without it no poet's
paradise!) nectar and ambrosia; heaven, indeed, being
poetarum dedecus, ' the shame of poets,' and the disgrace
of all their hyperboles, falling as far short of truth herein,
as they go beyond it in other fables.

Holy State, B. iv, C. xiii. 12.

Hard Words

We have an English proverb, that ' bones bring meat
to town ; * and those who are desirous to feast themselves
on the pleasant and profitable passages of history, must be
content sometimes to stoop their stomachs to feed on
hard words, which bring matter along with them.

Id. B. V. C. xviii. 6.

Help to work, the best help to live

Where we learn, that is the best charity which so
relieves people's wants as that they are still continued
in their calling. For, as he who teacheth one to swim,
though happily [haply] he will take him by the chin, yet
he expecteth that the learner shall nimbly ply the oars of
his hands and feet, and strive and struggle with all his
strength to keep himself above water : so those who
are beneficial to poor people, may justly require of them

that

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that they use both their hands to work and feet to go in
their calling, and themselves take all due labour, that
they may not sink in the gulf of penury. Relieve a
husbandman, yet so as that he may still continue in his
husbandry ; a tradesman, yet so as he may still go on
in his trade ; a poor scholar, yet so as he may still
proceed in his studies. Hereby the commonwealth
shall be a gainer. Drones bring no honey to the hive ;
but the painful hand of each private man contributes
some profit to the public good. Hereby the able poor,
the more diligent they be, the more bountiful men
will be to them ; while their bodies are freed from
many diseases, their souls from many sins, whereof
idleness is the mother. Ruth, xi. 15.

The Herald and the Fool

The queen, hearing of his commotion, sent an herald
unto him to desist, which herald came to Sir Thomas
[WyatJ's house deeply-moated round about, the bridge
being drawn up, yet so that a place like a ford pretended
a safe passage thereunto. On the inside thereof walked
the proper case of a man well habited, and his face carry-
ing no despair of wisdom therein. The herald asked him
whether he might safely go over there ; to whom the
other slightly answered, 'Yea, yea.' But had not the
strength of his horse been more than ordinary, he either
had been drowned in the water, or buried in the mud.

The herald, hardly escaping, fills all the house with
complaints, that, being an officer sent from the queen
under the protection of the public faith, (having his coat,
his conduct, upon him,) he should be so wilfully abused

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by false directions to the danger of his life by one of Sir
Thomas's servants. The knight, highly oifended at the
fault (as gentleman enough, and enemy to actions of
baseness,) summons all his servants to appear before the
herald, vowing that the offender should be sent prisoner
to the queen with his legs bound beneath his horse's belly,
to receive from her the reward of his wickedness.

The herald challengeth the party at the first sight of
him. ' Alas ! ' said Sir Thomas, 'he is a mere natural ;
as will appear, if you please to examine him.' 'Why,
sirrah,' said the herald, ' did you direct me to come over
where it was almost impossible to pass without drowning ? '
To whom the other answered, ' The ducks came over not
long before you, whose legs were shorter than your
horse's.' Hereat the herald smiled out his anger, adding
withal, 'Sir Thomas, hereafter let your fool wear the
badge of his profession on him, that he may deceive no
more in this kind.' c&. Hht. b. vUi. s. i. 26-^8.

Heraldry

Something must be premised of Arms in general.
They may seem in some sort to be jure divino to the
Jews, having a precept for the practice thereof : ' Every
man of the children of Israel shall pitch by his own
standard, with the ensign of their father's house.'

The use thereof is great, both in war and peace. I
begin with war, because Arms had their first rise from
arms, and had a military origin. Without these an army
cannot be methodised, and ig but an heap of men.
' Like an army,' saith the Scripture, ' terrible with
banners;' without which an army is not terrible, but

ridiculous.

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ridiculous, routing itself with its own confusion. Now as
no army without banners, so no banner without arms
therein. ' If the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who
shall prepare himself to the battle?' Now, as the
trumpet tells the time, so the banner proclaims the place
of meeting ; and if it have not distinguishable emblems
therein, who shall know whither to repair to his captain
or company.

Arms are also useful in peace, to distinguish one man
from another. They be termed nomina visibilia, ' visible
names.' For as a name notifieth a man to the ear, so his
arms do signify him to the eye, though dead many years
since ; so signal the service of arms on tombs to preserve
the memory of the deceased. Wonues: ch. xvi. Arms.

Heredity at Fault

Jeffrey [the dwarf] was born in the parish of Okeham
in this county, where his father was a very proper man,
broad shouldered and chested, though his son never
arrived at a full ell in stature.

It seems that families sometimes are checquered, as in
brains so in bulk, that no certainty can be concluded

from such alternations. id. Rutland. Memm-ahU Persons.

Heresy

Every scratch in the hand is not a stab to the heart :
nor doth every false opinion make a heretic.

Learning is necessary in the heretic, if he trades in a

critical error. — But if he only broaches dregs, and deals

in some dull, sottish opinion, a trowel will serve as well

as a pencil to daub-on auch thick coarse colours. Yea,

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in some heresies, deep studying is so useless, that the first
thing they learn is, to inveigh against all learning.

Hofy state^ B. v, C. lo.

Heresies clearing to the Truth

Her (Truth's) evidences which have lain long neg-
lected will then be searched and found out : her rusty
arguments will be scoured and furbished up. Many
will run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.
Those which before shooting at the truth, were over,
under, or wide, will now with the left-handed Gibeonites,
hit the mark at an hair's breadth and fail not : many parts
of true doctrine have been but slenderly guarded till
once they were assaulted by Heretics and many good
authors in those points which were never opposed, have
written but loosely and suffered unwary passages to fall
from their posting pens. But when thieves are about the
country every one will ride with his sword and stand on
his guard : when heretics are abroad in the world, writers
weigh each word, ponder each phrase, that they may
give the enemies no advantage.

Coll. Serm. : Josepli s party Coloured Coat^ Com. x Cor. xi. 19.

Heretics

Not learning, but the conceit thereof in those that
wanted it, and the abuse thereof in such as had it, caused

heretics. Holy and Profane State B. v. C. xi.

Hertfordshire

I HAVE been informed, from an ancient justice therein,
that one cannot be so advantageously placed in any part

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of this shire, but that he may recover another county
within the riding of five miles. It is the garden of
England for delight ; and men commonly say, that such
who buy a house in Hertfordshire pay two years' purchase

for the air thereof. worthies: Herts.

Hertfordshire Horses

Their teams of horses (oft-times deservedly advanced
from the cart to the coach) are kept in excellent equipage,
much alike in colour and stature, fat and fair; such is
their care in dressing and well-feeding them. I could
name the place and person (reader, be not offended with
an innocent digression), who brought his servant with a
warrant before a justice of peace for stealing his grain.
The man brought his five horses tailed together along
with him, alleging for himself, ' that, if he were the thief,
these were the receivers ; ' and so escaped.

Id, Herts. Natural Commodities.

High and Low

Hence, as hills, the higher, the barrener ; so men com-
monly, the wealthier, the worse ; the more honour, the
less holiness. And as rivers, when content with a small
channel, run sweet and clear ; when swelling to a navig-
able channel, by the confluence of several tributary
rivulets, gather mud and mire, and grow salt and brackish,
and violently bear down all before them : so many men,
who in mean estates have been pious and religious, being
advanced in honour, and enlarged in wealth, have grown
both impious and profane towards God, cruel and
tyrannical over their brethren. Ruth, ii. 2.

History

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History

Now know, next religion, there is nothing accom-
plisheth a man more than learning. Learning in a lord
is as a diamond in gold. And if you fear to hurt your
tender hands with thorny school-questions, there is no
danger in meddling with history, which is a velvet study,
and recreation work. What a pity is it to see a proper
gentleman to have such a crick in his neck that he can-
not look backward ! yet no better is he who cannot see
behind him the actions which long since were performed.
History maketh a young man to be old, without either
wrinkles or gray hairs; privileging him with the ex-
perience of age, without either the infirmities or incon-
veniences thereof. Yea, it not only maketh things past,
present ; but enableth one to make a rational conjecture
of things to come. For this world affordeth no new
accidents, but in the same sense wherein we call it a new
moon, which is the old one in another shape, and yet no
other than what hath been formerly. Old actions return
again, furbished over with some new and different

circumstances. Dedicatim ia Holy War.

Its Advantages

We Uve in a troublesome and tumultuous age ; and he
needs to have a very soft bed who can sleep soundly
now-a-days, amidst so much loud noise, and many
impetuous rumours. Wherefore it seemeth to me both a
safe and cheap receipt, to procure quiet and repose to the
mind which complains for want of rest, to prescribe unto
it the reading of history.

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Great is the pleasure and profit thereof. Zaccheus, we
know, was low and little in stature ; but when he had
borrowed some height from the fig-tree, into which he
climbed, (Luke xix. 4,) the dwarf was made a giant on a
sudden ; last minute beneath the arms, but now grown
above the heads, of other men. Thus, our experimental
knowledge is, in itself, both short and narrow, as which
cannot exceed ' the span of our own life.' But when we
are mounted on the advantage of history, we can not only
reach the year of Christ's incarnation, but even touch the
top of the world's beginning, and, at one view, over-see
all remarkable accidents of former ages.

Wherefore, until such time as I shall, by God's
providence, and the authority of my superiors, be
restored to the open exercise of my profession, on terms
consisting with my conscience, (which welcome minute I
do heartily wish, and humbly wait for ; and will greedily
listen to the least whisper sounding thereunto,) it is my
intent, God wilUng, to spend the remnant of my days in
reading and writing such stories as my weak judgment
shall commend unto me for most beneficial.

Holy and Profane State^ B. v. C. xviii. pref.

Study of History

The historian may make himself wise, by living as
many ages as have past since the beginning of the world.
His books enable him to maintain discourse, who, besides
the stock of his own experience, may spend on the com-
mon purse of his reading. This directs him in his life,
so that he makes the shipwrecks of others sea-marks to
himself ; yea, accidents which others start from for their

strangeness,

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Strangeness, he welcomes as his wonted acquaintance,
having found precedents for them formerly. Without
history a man's soul is purblind, seeing only the things
which almost touch his eyes. ifaiy state, b. u. c. vU. 7.

Historians Flatterers

Many historians (like some painters, which rather show
their skill in drawing a curious face, than in making it
like to him whom it should resemble), describe princes
rather what they should be, than what they were ; not
showing so much their goodness as their own wits.

Holy War, B. iii. C. xiv.

Paradoxical Historians

Duke Richard was low in stature, crook-backed, with
one shoulder higher than the other, having a prominent
gobber-tooth, a warlike countenance which well enough
became a soldier. Yet a modern author, in a book by
him lately set forth, eveneth his shoulders, smootheth his
back, planeth his teeth, maketh him in all points a
comely and beautiful person. Nor stoppeth he here ;
but, proceeding from his naturals to his morals, maketh
him as virtuous as handsome, which in some sense may
be allowed to be true ; concealing most, denying some,
defending others, of his foulest facts, wherewith in all
ages since he standeth charged on record. For mine
own part, I confess it no heresy to maintain a paradox in
history, nor am I sup h an enemy to wit as not to allow it
leave harmlessly to disport itself, for its own content, and
the delight of others. Thus Cardan hath written his
Encomium Neronis ; and others (best husbandmen who

can

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can improve the barrenest ground !) have by art
endeavoured to praise as improbable subjects. But
when men shall do it cordially, in sober sadness, to
pervert people's judgments, and therein go against all
received records, I say, singularity is the least fault can
be laid to such men's charge. Besides, there are some
birds, ' sea-pies ' by name, who cannot rise except it be
by flying against the wind, as some hope to achieve their
advancement by being contrary and paradoxical in
judgment to all before them. ck. Hist. b. iv. s. iv. 8.

Home-made Clothes

As for the shape and making of the Jewish garments,
they were no affecters (Englishmen-like) of various
fashions, but according to the commendable gravity of
the ancient Germans, kept the same form for many ages.
Indeed, their clothes, being for the most part loose vest-
ments, not exactly fitted to their bodies, but only cast
over, wrapped about, or girded unto them, the less
curiosity was required in their making. Hence it is that
we find the Philistines' clothes fitting Samson's friends
(Judg. xiv. 19), and Jonathan's robe given to David (i
Sam. xviii. 4), serving him without any considerable
difference ; and because we meet not with the trade of a
tailor, clean through the Scripture (though frequent men-
tion of weavers and fullers therein) it seems anciently no
distinct occupation among the Jews, being probable the
men or their wives made their own clothes, with Dorcas,
who made coats and garments for the widows, whilst she
was with them (Acts ix. 39). Thus the state and
gallantry of the Jews consisted not in their changeable

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fashions but in their various changes, orient colours,
costly matter, curious embroideries, of their garments.

Pisgah Sight, B. iv. C. vi. 9.

Honour and Worth

And now, my lord, how silly a thing is that honour which
lies at the mercy of such men's mouths, to tender or deny
the same ! The best is, men's statures are not extended
or contracted with their shadows ; so as to be stretched
out into giants in the morning, shrunk up into dwarfs at
noon, and stretched out at night into giants again. In-
trinsical worth doth not increase and abate, wax and wane,
ebb and flow, according to the fancy of others.

Ck. Hist. B. viii. Dedication.

Horses

These are men's wings, wherewith they make such
speed. A generous creature a horse is, sensible in some
sort of honour, made most handsome by (that which de-
forms man most) pride. The kings of Israel were not
forbidden (as some may mistake) the having, but the
multiplying of them ; chiefly because they were a foreign,
yea, an Egyptian commodity, and God would cut off
from his children all occasion of commerce with that
country, which was the staple-place of idolatry.

Our English horses have a mediocrity of all necessary
good properties in them ; as neither so slight as the Barb,
nor so slovenly as the Flemish, nor so fiery as the Hun-
garian, nor so airy as the Spanish gennets (especially if,
as reported, they be conceived of the wind), nor so earthly
as those in the Low Countries, and generally all the

German

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139

German horse. For stature and strength, they are of a
middle size, and are both seemly and serviceable in a
good proportion. And, whilst the seller praiseth them
too much, the buyer too little, the indifferent stander-by
will give them this due commendation.

Worthies ; Yorks. Natural Commodities.

Hospitality

Hospitality is threefold : — for one's family, this is of
necessity ; for strangers, this is courtesy ; for the poor,

this is charity. Holy state, b. iu. c. I.

Measure not thy entertainment of a guest by his
estate, but thine own. — Because he is a lord, forget not
that thou art but a gentleman ; otherwise, if with feasting
him thou breakest thyself, he will not cure thy rupture,
and (perchance) rather deride than pity thee.

Id. B. iii. C. i. 2.

The Good Husband

He beats not his wife after his death. — One, having a
shrewd wife, yet loath to use her hardly in his life-time,
awed her with telling her, that he would beat her when
he was dead J meaning, that he would leave her no main-
tenance. This humour is unworthy a worthy man, who
will endeavour to provide her a competent estate. Yet
he that impoverisheth his children to enrich his widow,
destroys a quick-hedge to make a dead one.

Id. B. i. C. iii. 8.

Humility.

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Humility

ICartiii.y Kings may make men humblcil. Cod alono
cnn humble. J/isi. n. v. s. ii. 4.

Hypercriticism

It is a greater fault rigidly to censure, than to commit
a small oversight. The one showeth liiniKolf man, in
mistaking ; the other no man, in not pardoning a light
mistake. //<•//• ifnr, ii. ii. c. iv.

Hypocrites

Hypocrites are of so glutinous a nature they will stick
close in every visible (^liurch. They cannot be divided
who i-annot be discerned. coii.strm..- rndu i\u,h,i„utf<i.

Ignorance at Fault

For, ignorant people count all circles above their own
sphere to be conjuring ; and presently cry out, those
things are done by black art for which tiieir dim eyes
can see no colour in reason. And in such case, when
they cannot fly up to heaven to make it a miracle, tiiey
fetcli it from hell to make it magic, though it may lawfully
be done by natural causes, ii,,iy .\i„i,; w. li, c, x.

Imaginary Coincidences

Wn will conclude all with Roger Iloveden's witty
descant on the time : — When Jerusalem was won by the
Christians, and afterwards when it was lost, .m Urban
was pope of Rome, a I'Vedcrick emperor of (ierniany, an
lieraclius i)atriarch of Jerusalem, But by his le.ive,

though

Quaint tomnedtf

141

though the first of his observations be true, thu second
is a flat falsity, the third a foul mistake, and may thus be
mended : (it is charity to lend a crutch to a lame conceit)
— When the cross was taken from the ]'ersians, Heraclius
was emperor ; and when it was taken from the Turks,
Heraclius was patriarch. Thus these curious obser-
vations (like over-small watches), not one of a hundred
goeth true. Though it cannot be denied, but the same
name (as Henry of J'lngland, one the win-all, another the
lose-all in France) hath often been happy and unhappy
in founding and confounding of kingdoms. But such
nominal toys are rags not worth a wise man's stooping to
take them up. //„/j, ivar, b. ii. c. 46,

An Index

An Index is the bag and baggage of a book, of more
use than honour ; even such who vehemently slight
ii, secretly using it, if not for need, for speed of what
Uiey desire to find. piseah Sight, ad fin-

An Interdict, laoy

See now on a sudden the sad face of the English
church 1 — a face without a tongue, no singing of service,
no saying of mass, no reading of prayers : as for preaching
of sermons, the laziness and ignorance of those times had
long before interdicted them. None need pity the living
(hearing the impatient complaints of lovers, for whose
marriage no license could be procured), when he looks
on the dead, who were buried in ditches, like dogS)
without any prayers said upon them. True, a well-
informed Christian knows full well, that a corpse, though

cast

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FnUer

cast in a bog, shall not stick there at the day of judgment ;
thrown into a wood, shall then find out the way ; buried
by the highway's side, is in the ready road to resurrection ;
in a word, that wheresoever a body be put or placed, it
will equally take the alarm at the last trumpet : yet
seeing these people believed, that a grave in consecrated
ground was a good step to heaven, and were taught that
prayers after their death were essential to their salvation,
it must needs put strange fears into the heads and
hearts both of such which deceased and their friends
which survived them. ca. Hist. b. iii. s. iv. 7.

Inventors and Improvers

I CONFESS it is easier to add to any art, than first to
invent it ; yet, because there is a perfection of degrees,
as well as kinds, eminent improvers of an art may be
allowed for the co-inventors thereof being founders of
that accession which they add thereunto, for which they
deserve to be both regarded and rewarded. W(nihies: c. xU.

Irishmen in England

I MUCH admire, that never an eminent Irish native
grew in England to any greatness ; so many English
have prospered in that country. But, it seems, we love
to live there, where we may command ; and they care
not to come where they must obey.

Id. C. xxiv. English Gentry.

Iron

Great the necessity hereof; some nations having
lived in the ignorance of gold and silver, scarce any
without the use of iron. Indeed we read not of it in

making

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mnkiii^; llir 'riiJirnincIn (llioiigli from no iiicntioii, no
UHO lliftrol' Ihciviii <'iuin(il liifiillilily lie iiilcn-cd), wliicli
licliiK ImiI (I Nllght mill t>(ii'Uil)lc l)tiililiii|{, bmNH ivukIU
Mlipply llip wMiil llir'irdr. Hill in llip 'rniiplc, which wnM
a liiiiiri liihiii'i we find 'lion lor Ihc thIngN of Iron,
iind II hiinihi'il Ihoimniiil liilriitH of Unit iiichil employed
thcirin.

(Irriil llip (|ii(ijilily of iron niiidn in this coiinly ;
wlifrfof mill h UKod liu'rcin, iind more exported tlicnec
inio olhn piirlH ol' llie hind, iind licyond tiie Dean. But
vvhrlher or no the piivMlc pnilU Ihcrrhy will iit long
running niiinlerviiiJ llir piililii' loss in llio ileHtriiclioii of
woodii, I nm tim unwilling lo iliHcuHH as iiniililc lo deride.
Only Irl ine iidd the enMiihig eompliiiiil, wherein the
llmlier Iittm of Ihlw ('oiinty deplore their condilion,
in my opinion rirhly worth Ihn remlcr'M jicrilHiil ;

' Jhvc^'b emit, llin wnilllin aiti'i, vclnrd pini, llio nullri' \)an'M,
Sliiiil hn/r'i, iiiflpln pliilM, ll()lit (ifl|i, Hip liriiillii|{ wyiili,
'rtiii^li liiilly, mill miiiiiilli lilri;li, mutt nUii(;rllior liiirii ;
Whnl mIhiiiIiI llic liiillilr'ni Bprvr, Bii|i|illc'« llm liii'i^pin' tiini j

Wlieii uiiilpi' |iiililli' (J I, luiKP pilvnto khIii I'llto" li'ilil.

Anil vvp |MHM' vvdIuI WnmU In nilii Indlly milil.'

Mill il in to lie hoped Ihiil a. wtiy miiy lie found oiil, to
eharkt Nen loul in sueli iiiiinner hn lo render il useful for
llie iiuildng of iron. All things are not round out in one
iige, n» refierved lor I'liliirc diwuivery ; iind thiil perehimre
limy lie cany lor the next, wliirli Heeiim iinpoHMihIc to tliii

genertllion. /,/, .\,,xxm. tfatnyal <\<mm,i,Min.

Jerusalam: lt« A«pect

JituiKHAi.if.M better neijiiittelh itnelf to the eiir thiui
lo the eye i licing no whil lieiUitiful lU nil, 'I'hegituation

thereof

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thereof is very uneven, rising into hills and sinking into
dales ; the lively emblem of the fortunes of the place ;
sometimes advanced with prosperity, sometimes de-
pressed in misery. Once it was well compacted, and
dui/i as a city that is at unity in itself; but now distracted
from itself: the suspicious houses (as if afraid to be
infected with more misery than they have already, by
contiguousness to others) keep off at a distance, having
many waste places betwixt them; not one fair street
in the whole city. Holy War, b. v. c. 27.

Jesting

Harmless mirth is the best cordial against the con-
sumption of the spirits ; wherefore jesting is not unlawful
if it trespasseth not in quantity, quality, or season.

Holy State, B. iii. C. 2.

He that will lose his friend for a jest, deserves to die a
beggar by the bargain.— Yet some think their conceits,
like mustard, not good except they bite. We read, that
all those who were born in England, the year after the
beginning of the great mortality 1349, wanted their four
cheek-teeth. Such let thy jests be, that they may not
grind the credit of thy friend, and make not jests so long
till thou becomest one. u. b. Hi. c. li. 7.

A Jest of Queen Elizabeth's Commissioners

What credit there is to be given to that thorough old
(if not doting) prophecy, that a Spaniard shall one day
recover Jerusalem, we leave to the censure of others ;

and

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145

and meantime we will conclude more serious matters
with this pleasant passage : —

When the late wars in the days of Queen Elizabeth
were hot between England and Spain, there were com-
missioners on both sides appointed to treat of peace ;
they met at a town of the French king's; and first it
was debated, what tongue the negotiation should be
handled in. A Spaniard, thinking to give the English
commissioners a shrewd gird, proposed the French
tongue as most fit, it being a language which the
Spaniards were well skilled in; 'and for these gentle-
men of England, I suppose (said he) that they cannot
be ignorant of the language of their fellow subjects;
their queen is queen of France as well as England.'
' Nay, in faith, masters (replied Doctor Dale, the master
of requests) the French tongue is too vulgar for a
business of this secrecy and importance, especially in
a French town ; we will rather treat in Hebrew the
language of Jerusalem, whereof your master is king ; I
suppose you are herein as well skilled as we in French.'

Holy War, B. v. C. 29.

A Good Judge

He is patient and attentive in hearing the pleadings
on both sides. — And hearkens to the witnesses, though
tedious. He may give a waking testimony, who hath
but a dreaming utterance; and many country people
must be impertinent, before they can be pertinent, and
cannot give evidence about a hen, but first they must
begin with it in the egg. All which our Judge is con-
tented to hearken to. Holy state, B. iv. C. vii. u

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The Judge may be deceived by false evidence. But
blame not the hand of the dial, if it points at a false
hour, when the fault is in the wheels of the clock which
direct it, and are out of frame. Holy state, b. iv. c.vii. 7.

Judgment lingers

God's justice on offenders goes not always in the
same path, nor the same pace : and he is not pardoned for
the fault, who is for a while reprieved from the punishment;
yea, sometimes the guest in the inn goes quietly to bed,
before the reckoning for his supper is brought to him to

discharge. /foty and Profane State, B. v. C. xix. adfiti.

Judge nothing before the Time

Let us not with rash judging thrust all into the pit
of hell whom we see walking near the brink thereof

Holy War, B. iv. C. s.

God's Judgments

I CONFESS, God's best servants sometimes have had
sad and sudden ends : witness good Eli himself, who fell
down, and brake his neck, 1 Sam. iv. 18. I confess
likewise, that some wicked men, who have lived like lions,
have died (to use the common country-phrase) like
lambs ; or, to use the expression of the Psalmist, ' they
have no bands in their death,' Psalm Ixxiii. 4 ; so fairly
and quietly do they expire. It is not good, therefore, to
be over-tampering in this particular, (our Saviour himself
retrenching the censoriousness of the Jews, for falling so
heavy on the memories of those on whom the tower of

Siloe

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Siloe fell, Luke xiii. 4,) and infallibly to infer, from their
fatal death, their final damnation. However, when a re-
markable death suddenly follows a notorious, wicked life,
even such passengers as are posting in the speed of their
private affairs are bound to make a stand, and solemnly
to observe the justice of God's proceedings therein ;
the rather, because Bellarmine, our adversary, afiSrmeth,
that, infelix exitus eorum qui ecdesiam oppugnant, ' the
unhappy end of the adversaries therof,' is one of the marks
of the true church.

Ch. Hist. B. viii. S. ii. 36.

Knives

These are the teeth of old men, and useful to those of
all ages ; for, though some think themselves scarce
gentlemen with knives, as good as they, conceive them-
selves scarce men without them, so necessary they are on
all occasions. The most of these for common use of
country people are made in this county; whereof the
bluntest, with a sharp stomach, will serve to cut meat
if before them. Sheffield, a remarkable market, is the
staple town for this commodity, and so hath been these
three hundred years ; witness Chaucer, speaking of the
accoutrements of the miller,

' A Sheffield whitel bare he in his hose.'

One may justly wonder how a knife may be sold for one
penny, three trades anciently distinct concurring there-
unto, bladers, haft-makers, and sheath-makers, all since
united into the corporation of Cutlers. Nor must we
forget, that though plain knife-making was very ancient
in this county, yet Thomas Matthews on Fleet-bridge,

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London, was the first Englishman who (quinto Ehzabeth^)
made fine knives, and procured a prohibition, that no
more ships-lading of hafts should be brought from beyond

the seas. IVortkies: Yorks. Manufactures.

The Court Lady

She is a good scholar, and well learned in useful
authors. — Indeed, as, in purchases, a house is valued at
nothing, because it returneth no profit, and requires great
charges to maintain it ; so, for the same reasons, learning
in a woman is but little to be prized. But, as for great
ladies, who ought to be a confluence of all rarities and
perfections, some learning in them is not only useful but
necessary.

In discourse, her words are rather fit than fine, very
choice, and yet not chosen. — Though her language be
not gaudy, yet the plainness thereof pleaseth, it is so
proper, and handsomely put on. Some, having a set of
fine phrases, will hazard an impertinency to use them all,
as thinking they give full satisfaction for dragging in the
matter by head and shoulders, if they dress it in quaint
expressions. Others often repeat the same things ; the
Platonic year of their discourses being not above three
days long, in which term all the same matter returns
over again, threadbare talk ill suiting with the variety of
their clothes.

She affects not the vanity of foolish fashions. — But is
decently apparelled according to her state and condition.
He that should have guessed the bigness of Alexander's
soldiers, by their shields left in India, would much over-
proportion their true greatness. But what a vast over-
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grown creature would some guess a woman to be, taking
his aim by the multitude and variety of clothes and
ornaments, which some of them use ! insomuch as the
ancient Latins called a woman's wardrobe, mundus, ' a
world ; ' wherein, notwithstanding, was much terra incog-
nita then undiscovered, but since found out by the
curiosity of modern fashion-mongers. We find a map of
this 'world 'drawn by God's Spirit, (Isaiah iii. 18-24),
wherein one-and-twenty women's ornaments, all super-
fluous, are reckoned up; which at this day are much
increased. The 'moons,' there mentioned, which they
wore on their heads, may seem since grown to the full in
the luxury of after-ages. Holy state, b. iv. c. xUi. 6-8.

The Lamb and the Lion

One may be a lamb in private wrongs ; but in hearing
general affronts to goodness, they are asses who are not

lions. Id. B. iv. C. xiii. 4.

The Lambeth Articles

When these articles came abroad into the world, men's
brains and tongues, as since their pens, were employed
about the authority of the same, and the obedience due
unto them ; much puzzled to find the new place, where
rightly to rank them in reputation ; how much above the
results and resolutions of private divines, and how much
beneath the authority of a provincial synod. Some there
were that almost equalled their authenticalness with the
acts of a synod, requiring the like conformity of men's
judgments unto them. . . .

Others maintain the contrary. For, grant each man,

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in this conference at Lambeth, one of a thousand for
learning and religion ; yet was he but one in power and
place, and had no proxy or deputation, the two Cambridge
doctors excepted, to appear in the behalf of others ; and
therefore their determinations, though of great use to
direct, could be but of little authority to conclude and
command the consent of others.

But a third sort, offended with the matter of the
articles, thought that the two archbishops, and the rest
at this meeting deserved censure for holding an unlawful
conventicle. For they had not express command from
the queen to meet, debate and decide such contro-
versies. . . .

One goeth further to afifirm that those articles of
Lambeth were afterwards forbidden by public authority ;
but when, where and by whom, he is not pleased to im-
part to us. And strange it is that a public prohibition
should be whispered so softly, that this author alone
should hear it and none other to my knowledge take
notice thereof. . . .

And now I perceive, I must tread tenderly, because I
go not (as before) on men's graves, but am ready to
touch the quick of some yet alive. I know how danger-
ous it is to follow truth too near to the heels ; yet better
it is that the teeth of an historian be struck out of his
head for writing the truth, than that they remain still
and rot in his jaws, by feeding too much on the sweet-
meats of flattery. All that I will say of the credit of these
articles is this, — that as medals of gold and silver, though
they will not pass in payment for current coin, because
not stamped with the king's inscription, yet they will go

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with goldsmiths for as much as they are in weight ; so,
though these articles want authentic reputation to pass
for provincial Acts, as lacking sufficient authority, yet
will they be readily received of orthodox Christians for
as far as their own purity bears conformity to God's word.
And though those learned divines be not acknowledged
as competent judges to pass deiinitive sentence in those
points, yet they will be taken as witnesses beyond ex-
ception ; whose testimony is an infallible evidence what
was the general and received doctrine of England in that
agCj about the fore-named controversies.

Ch. Hist. B. ix, S. viii, 24-28.

Lampreys

A DEFORMED fish, which for the many holes therein,
one would conceive nature intended it rather for an in-
strument of music than for man's food. The best
manner of dressing whereof, saith my author, is ' to kill
it in malmsey, close the mouth thereof with a nutmeg,
the holes with so many cloves ; and when it is rolled up
round, putting in thereto filbert-nut-kernels stamped,
crumbs of bread, oil, spices, &c.' Others (but those
miso-lampreys) do add, that, after all this cost, even cast
them away, seeing money is better lost than health;
and the meat will rather be delicious than wholesome,
the eating whereof cost king Henry the First his life.
But, by their favour, that king did not die of lampreys,
but of excess in eating them ; and I am confident the
Jews might surfeit of manna itself, if eating thereof above
due proportion.

' Worthies : Worcester. Natural Commodities.

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The Rigour of the Law

The most wholesome laws would be poison, (justice,
hot in the fourth degree, is cruelty,) if enforced at all
times, and on all persons, to the utmost extremity.

CA. Hist. B. ix. S. iv. lo.

Lawn Sleeves

Let canvass be rough and rugged, lawn ought to be
soft and smooth ; meekness, mildness, and mercy being
more proper for men of the episcopal function.

Id. B. xi. S. ii. 68.

Lead

Plenty of the best (for the kind thereof) is digged out
of Mendip hills. Indeed it is not so soft, pliant, and
equally fusile, as that in Derbyshire ; not so proper for
sheeting, because, when melted, it runs into knots, and
therefore little known to, and less used by, our London
plumbers ; for, being of a harder nature, it is generally
transported beyond the seas, and employed to make
bullets and shot, for which purpose it is excellent. May
foreigners enjoy wild lead, to kill men ; whilst we make
use of tame lead, to cover houses, and keep people warm

and dry therein. Worthies .• Somerset. Natural Commodities.

Undated Letters

But one thing I must clear in our entrance thereon,
in excuse that these letters are dateless as to the day and
month ; a great omission, which I have seen in many
originals, whose authors so minded the matter that they

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neglected the time, the present dispatching of them being
date enough to their purpose, though now the want
thereof leaves posterity at a loss. A blue coat without a
badge is but a white coat in effect ; as nothing informing
the beholder to what lord the bearer thereof doth relate :
and as little instructive (will some say) are these letters
as to the point of chronology. But be it known, that no
reader's stomach can be so sharp set on the criticalness of
chronology, but that, being fed with the certainty of the
year, he will not be famished with the uncertainty of the
month or day. Indeed, as such whose names are
casually omitted in the register may recover the truth of
their age by a comparative computation of their years,
who were borii about the same time ; so, by the mixture
and comparing of these dateless letters with those having
date of secular affairs, I could competently have collected
and inserted the time, save that I loathe to obtrude any
thing conjectural on the reader's belief.

Ch.Hist. B. bt. S. v. 9.

Letter-History best History

I SHALL now withdraw myself, or at leastwise stand by
a silent spectator, whilst I make room for far my betters
to come forth and speak in the present controversy of
church-government. Call it not cowardice, but count it
caution in me, if desirous in this difference to lie at a
close-guard, and offer as little play as may be on either
side, whilst the reader shall behold the masters of defence
on both sides engaged therein in these following letters
of state. Baronius, the great Roman Annalist, was wont
to say, Epistolaris historia est optima historia, ' That is the

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best history which is collected out of letters.' How much
of the Acts of the Apostles (especially for the regulation of
time) is contained in Ihe Epistles of St. Paul ! Of the
primitive history, the most authentical part is what is
gathered out of the letters of the Fathers.

CA. Hist. B. ix. S. V. 8, 9.

Liars unconscionable, do little Harm

The best is, that unconscionable liars, though they
most hurt themselves, do the least harm others, whose
loud ones are both the poison and the antidote, seeing
no wise man will believe them. Small grit and gravel
may choke a man ; but that stone can never stop his
throat which cannot enter into his mouth.

Id. B. i. 30.

Lies beget Lies

A wilful falsehood told is a cripple not able to stand
by itself, without some to support it ; it is easy to tell a
lie, hard to tell but a lie.

Good Thoughts in Worse Times : Scrip. Observ. 7.

Liturgy, some Revisors

Some complained against the liturgy to the lord
Burleigh, of whom he demanded, ' whether they desired
the taking away thereof They answered, 'No. But
only the amendment of what was offensive therein.' He
required them to make a better, such as they would
have settled in the stead thereof. Whereupon,

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The first classis framed a new one, somewhat ac-
cording to the form of Geneva.

The second classis, disliking it, altered it in six hundred
particulars.

The third quarrelled at these alterations, and resolved
on a new model.

The fourth classis dissented from the former.

Thus, because they could not agree amongst them-
selves, that wise statesman put them off for the present,
until they should present him a pattern with a perfect

consent. Ch. Hist. B. ix. S. vi. 32.

Main Amber

Main is in Cornish the stone ; and Amber, as some
conceive, of Ambrosius that valiant Briton, erected
probably by him on some victory achieved against the
Romans, or some other enemies. This is a master-piece
of mathematics and critical proportions, being a great
stone of so exact position on the top of a rock, that any
weakness by touching it may move it, and yet no force
can remove it, so justly it is poised. I have heard in
common discourse, when this Main Amber hath been
made the emblem of such men's dispositions, who would
listen to all counsel, and seem inclined thereunto, but
are so fixed, that no reason can alter them from their
first resolution.

But know, reader, that this wonder is now unwondered ;
for I am credibly informed, that some soldiers of late
have utterly destroyed it. Oh, how dangerous is it for
art to stand in the way where ignorance is to pass.

Worthies: Cornwall. Natural Commodities,

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Malt

Though commonness causeth contempt, excellent the
art of the first inventing thereof. I confess it facile to
make barley-water, an invention which found out itself,
with little more than the bare joining the ingredients
together. But to make malt for drink, was a master-
piece indeed. How much of philosophy concurred to
the first kill of malt ! and before it was turned on the
floor, how often was it tossed in the brain of the first
inventor thereof.

First, to give it a new growth more than the earth had
bestowed thereon. Swelling it in the water, to make
it last the longer by breaking it, and taste the sweeter by
corrupting it. Secondly, by making it to pass the fire,
the grain (by art fermented) acquiring a lusciousness
(which by nature it had not), whereby it doth both
strengthen and sweeten the water wherein it is boiled.

iVorthies: Derbyshire. Manufactures.

'"Manners maketh Man,"

quoth William Wickham.'

This generally was his motto, inscribed frequently on
the places of his founding ; so that it hath since acquired
a proverbial reputation. We commonly say, i. In the
Church ; ' God makes a man,' as who truly created him.
2. In the Court; 'Clothes make a man,' as which habit
and adorn him. 3. In the Change; 'Money makes a
man,' which puts him in a solvable condition. 4. In
the Schools ; ' Manners make a man,' as which complete
and accomplish him.

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Grant the two middle expressions, the extravagancy
of our pride and covetousness, the first and last must be
allowed proportionable to piety and truth. Without
manners, one is but a man-beast, or centaur.

Now seeing no man without manners, no manners
without some learning, no learning without teaching,
no teaching of youth to that in a grammar free-school,
men to that in a college in an university; how much
thanks doth posterity owe to this Wickham's memory.

Id.: Hants. Proverbs.

The Manufactures of England

Some Heathen have causelessly complained of Nature
as a step-mother to mankind, because other creatures
come into the world clothed with feathers, furs, or
fleeces, &c., or armed with paws, claws, beaks, tusks,
horns, hoofs; whilst man is exposed naked into the
world: I say a causeless charge, because Providence
having given men hands, and reason to use them (two
blessings denied to other creatures), all clothing and
fencing is eminently and transcendantly bestowed upon
him.

It is very remarkable to see the manufactures in
England, not knowing whether more to admire the rarity
or variety thereof. Undoubtedly the wealth of a nation
consisteth in driving a native commodity through the
most hands to the highest artificial perfection, whereof
we have taken especial cognizance in the respective
countries, yet so as (though briefly naming) not largely
handling that manufacture whereon we have formerly
insisted.

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It must not be forgotten that there be some things
which cannot properly be termed natural commodities,
because of their quality altered and disguised by men's
industry; and yet they attain not the reputation of
manufactures. As salt, being water boiled ; malt, barley
dried : cider, apples pressed. Worthies: c. i.

Marriage

Deceive not thyself by over-expecting happiness in the
married estate. — Look not therein for contentment
greater than God will give, or a creature in this world
can receive ; namely, to be free from all inconveniences.
Marriage is not like the hill Olympus, oXoj Xaimpos,
' wholly clear,' without clouds. Yea, expect both wind
and storms sometimes, which when blown over, the air
is the clearer and wholesoraer for it. Make account
of certain cares and troubles which will attend thee.
Remember the nightingales, which sing only some
months in the spring, but commonly are silent when
they have hatched their eggs, as if their mirth were turned
into care for their young ones. Yet all the molestations
of marriage are abundantly recompensed with other
comforts, which God bestoweth on them who make a
wise choice of a wife. Holy state, b. Hi. c. xxH. 3.

Let there be no great disproportion in age. — They
that marry ancient people merely in expectation to bury
them, hang themselves, in hope that one will come and
cut the halter. id. b. iii. c. xxii. 6.

Martyrdom

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Martyrdom

Heart-of-oak hath sometimes warped a little in the
scorching heat of persecution. — Their want of true
courage herein cannot be excused. Yet many censure
them for surrendering up their forts after a long siege,
who would have yielded up their own at the first sum-
mons. O ! there*is more required to make one valiant,
than to call Cranmer or Jewel ' coward ' ; as if the fire
in Smithfield had been no hotter than what is painted in
' the Book of Martyrs.' miy state, b. m. c. xix. 6.

Martyrdom of Ridley and Latimer

Old Hugh Latimer was Ridley's partner at the stake,
some time bishop of Worcester, who crawled thither
after him ; one who had lost more learning than many
ever had, who flout at his plain sermons ; though his
down-right style was as necessary in that ignorant age,
as it would be ridiculous in ours. Indeed, he con-
descended to people's capacity ; and many men unjustly
count those low in learning, who indeed do but stoop
to their auditors. Let me see any of our sharp wits do
that with the edge— which his bluntness did with the
back— of the knife, and persuade so many to restitution
of ill-gotten goods. Though he came after Ridley to
the stake, he got before him to heaven : his body, made
tinder by age, was no sooner touched by the fire, but
instantly this old Simeon had his Nunc dimitUs, and
brought the news to heaven that his brother was
following after. id. b. iv. c. xii.

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Martyrs : Estimation of them

But before I go further, reader, pardon a digression ;
and yet is it none, for it is necessary. I have, within
the narrow scanthng of my experimental remembrance,
observed strange alteration in the world's valuing of
those learned men who lived in that age ; and take it
plainly, without' welt or guard ; for he that smarts for
speaking truth, hath a plaster in his own conscience.

When I was a child, I was possessed with a reverent
esteem of them, as most holy and pious men, dying
Martyrs, in the days of queen Mary, for the profession
of the truth; which opinion having, from my parents,
taken quiet possession of my soul^ they must be very
forcible reasons which eject it.

Since that time, they have been much cried down in
the mouths of many, who, making a coroner's inquest
upon their death, hath found them little better than
felons de se, dying in their own blood, for a mere
formahty, de modo, ' of the manner ' of the presence, and
a sacrifice in the sacrament ; who might easily, with one
small distinction, have knocked off their fetters, and saved
their lives. By such the coronet of martyrdom is plucked
off from their memories; and others, more moderate,
equally part their death betwixt their enemies' cruelty,
and their own over-forwardness. . . .

Thus the prices of Martyrs' ashes rise and fall in
Smithfield-market. However, their real worth floats not
with people's fancies, no more than a rock in the sea
rises and falls with the tide. St. Paul is still St. Paul,
though the Lycaonians now would sacrifice to him, and

presently

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presently after would sacrifice him. These bishops, min-
isters, and lay-people, who were put to death in queen
Mary's days, were worthy saints of God, holy and godly
men, but had their faults, failings, and imperfections.
Had they not been men, they had not burnt ; yea, had
they not been more than men, (by God's assistance,)
they had not burnt. Every true Christian should, but
none but strong Christians will, die at the stake.

Holy state, B. iv. C. xi.

A Good Master of a College

His learning, if beneath eminency, is far above con-
tempt. — Sometimes ordinary scholars make extraordinary
good masters. Every one who can play well on Apollo's
harp, cannot skilfully drive his chariot ; there being a
peculiar mystery of government. Yet, as a httle alloy
makes gold to work the better, so, perchance, some
dulness in a man makes him fitter to manage secular
affairs; and those who have climbed up Parnassus but
half-way, better behold worldly business, (as lying low
and nearer to their sight,) than such as have climbed up
to the top of the mount. id. b. h. c. xiv. i.

Mediocrity

The general weight of God's work in the church lieth
on men of middle and moderate parts. That servant
who improved his two talents into four, did more than
the other who increased his five into ten. (Matthew
XXV. 12.) Tradesmen will tell you, it is harder to double
a little than treble a great deal ; seeing great banks easily
improve themselves, by those advantages which smaller
M sums

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sums want. And surely many honest (though not so
eminent) ministers, who employ all their might in God's
service, equal, (if not exceed,) both in his acceptance
and the church's profit, the performances of such who
far excel them in abilities. ffist. cami. s. vi. lo.

This is the misery of moderation ; I recall my word
(seeing misery properly must have sin in it). This is an
affliction attending moderate men, that they have not an
active party to side with them and favour them.

Men of great stature will quickly be made porters to a
king, and those diminutively little, dwarfs to a queen,
whilst such who are of a middle height may get them-
selves masters where they can. The moderate man,
eminent for no excess or extravagancy in his judgment,
will have few patrons to protect, or persons to adhere
unto him. But what saith St. Paul, i Cor. xv. 19 : If in
this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the
most miserable.

Gffoti Thoughts X Mixt Contemfl. on Better Ti-mes, 33.

Meditation

Meditation, which is the chewing of the cud of the
food of the soul, turning it into clean and wholesome

nourishment. Worthies: Wilts. Writers.

Memory

None alive ever heard me pretend to the art of
memory, who in my book have decried it as a trick, no
art; and, indeed, is more of fancy than memory. I
confess, some ten years since, when I came out of the

pulpit

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pulpit of St. Dunstan's East; one (who since wrote a
book thereof) told me in the vestry, before credible
people, that he in Sidney College had taught me the
art of memory. I returned unto him, that it was not
so ; for I could not remember that I had ever seen his face ;
which, I conceive, was a real refutation. However,
seeing that a natural memory is the best flower in mine,
and not the worst in the Animadvertor's garden, let us
turn our competitions herein unto mutual thankfulness
to the God of heaven. Afp. inj. inn. p. ii. e. iv. 94.

[' He had a memory so tenacious and comprehensive,
that it enabled him to do things which are hardly
credible. He could repeat five hundred strange words
after twice hearing, and could make use of a sermon
verbatim, if he once heard it. He undertook once, in
passing to and fro, from Temple-Bar to the furthest part
of Cheapside, to tell at his return every sign as it stood
in order on both sides of the way, repeating them either
backwards or forwards : and he did it exactly. His
manner of writing [when thus testing his memory] was
very strange and rare, from the top of the page to the
bottom, something like that of the Chinese. The
manner was thus : he would write near the margin the
first words of every line down to the foot of the paper ;
then, by beginning at the head again, would so perfectly
fill up every one of these Hnes, as, without spaces,
interlineations, or contractions, would so connect the
ends and beginnings, that the sense would appear as
complete, as if he had written it in a continued series
after the ordinary manner.']

Note to above by an Anonymovs Biographer.

M 2 Overburden

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Overburden not thy memory, to make so faithful a
servant a slave. — Remember, Atlas was weary. Have
as much reason as a camel, — to rise when thou hast thy
full load. Memory is like a purse, — if it be over-full
that it cannot shut, all will drop out of it. Take heed
of a gluttonous curiosity to feed on many things, lest the
greediness of the appetite of thy memory spoil the
digestion thereof. Beza's case was peculiar and memor-
able : Being above four-score years of age, he perfectly
could say by heart any Greek chapter in St. Paul's
epistles, or any thing else which he had learned long
before, but forgot whatsoever was newly told him ; his
memory, like an inn, retaining old guests, but having no
room to entertain new. hoIji state, b. iii. c. x. 4.

Many, especially Memory-Mistakes, and Pen-
Slips, must be expected in a great Volume

It is the advantage of a small book, that the author's
eye may in a manner be incumbent at once over it all,
from the beginning to the end thereof; a cause why
they may be more exactly corrected. A garden hard by
one's house is easier weeded and trimmed, than a field
lying at some distance. Books which swell to a great
volume, cannot be spun with so even a thread, but will
run coarser here and there ; yea, and have knots in them
sometimes, whereof the author is not so sensible as the
reader ; as the faults in children are not so soon found
in them by their own fathers, as by strangers. Thus the
poet : —

Veriim opere in longo fas est obrepere somnum.

As

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As for memory-mistakes, (which are not the sleeping,
but winking, of an author,) they are so far from over-
throwing the credit of any "book, as a speck, not paring-
deep, in the rind of an apple is from proving of the same
rotten to the core. Yea, there want not learned writers
(whom I need not name) of the opinion, that even the
instrumental penmen of the scripture might commit
i/iaprrinaTa livrntoviKa ; though, open that window to pro-
faneness, and it will be in vain to shut any doors : ' Let
God bfe true, and every man a liar.' However, I mention
their judgments to this purpose, to show that memory-
mistakes have not been counted such heinous matters,
but venial in their own nature, as not only iinding but
deserving pardon.

I confess when such mistakes become common and
customary in an author, they mar the credit of his book,
and intolerably abuse the reader. Nothing is lighter in
itself than a single crumb of sand, yet many of them put
together are the heaviest of bodily burdens : ' heavier
than the sand of the sea,' Job vi. 3. What is slight in
itself, if numerous, will become ponderous ; but I hope
that memory-mistakes and pen- slips in my book will not
be found so frequent ; and desire the benefit of this plea
to be allowed me but four times, in my answer to the
Animadvertor : a number low enough, I hope, for the
ingenuous reader to grant, though perchance too high for
me to request. /»/ /»»• p- •• c. v.

Mercenary Soldiers

And here my discourse (by the leave of the reader)
must a httle sally forth to treat of the danger of enter-
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taining mercenary soldiers. They may perchance be
called in with a whistle, but scarce cast out with a whip.
If they be slugs, they endanger a state by their slothful-
ness; if spirited men, by their activity. Caesar Borgia,
Machiavel's idol, whose practice he maketh the pattern
of policy, saith, that he had rather be conquered with his
own men, than be conqueror with an army of others,
because he counted that conquest to be none at all.

We may observe, the Low Countries have best thrived
by setting this trade of journeymen soldiers on work.
Let them thank God and the good English ; for if
Francis duke of Anjou with his Frenchmen had well
succeeded, no doubt he would have spread his bread with
their butter. Next them the Venetians have sped best ;
for they have the trick, when they find it equally danger-
ous to cashier their mercenary general or to entertain
him any longer, fairly to kill him, as they served Car-
mignola. England hath best thrived without them ;
under God's protection we stand on our own legs. The
last I find are a handful of Almains used against Kett, in
Norfolk in the days of King Edward VI. And let it
be our prayers, that as for those hirelings which are to be
last tried and least trusted, we never have want of their
help, and never have too much of it. Bsiy War, b. u. c. 35.

Merit not measured by Success

Those actions are not ungodly which are unsuc-
cessful, nor those pious which are prosperous ; seeing
the lawfulness of an action is not to be gathered from the
joyfulness of the event, but from the justness of the
cause, for which it is undertaken. R-uth, ch. i. 3.

Metals

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Metals

Because metals are found in mountains, it is madness
to mine for them in every rich meadow.

Worthies : Yorks. Writers,

Militant not Triumphant

Triumphant perfection is not to be hoped for in the
mihtant church ; there will be in it many spots and
wrinkles as long as it consisteth of sinful mortal men, the
members thereof : it is Christ's work, not man's work, to
make a perfect reformation.

Such, therefore, are no good politicians who will make
a sore to mend a spot, cause a wound to plain a wrinkle,
do a great and certain mischief, when a small and uncer-
tain benefit will thereby redound.

Good Thoughts : Mixt Contempl. on Better TinteSy P. ii. 31,

Millstones

When in motion, in default of grist to grind, they
(millstones) will fire one another j so necessary is foreign
employment for active spirits, to divert them from home-
bred combustions. Worthies: Anglesea.

Miners

I HAVE read that the vicars in that country do receive
every tenth dish of ore for their due, being obliged
thereby to pray heartily for the miners. Now though
no such place or profit belongeth unto me, yet, treating
of this subject, I conceive myself bound, if not in
conscience, in courtesy, to wish these workmen a good-
speed

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speed in their lawful endeavours, whilst they only
undermine the earth, and not their neighbours' right by
fraudulent practices. May their lot prove a prize unto
them, that they may gain, at the least, no blank to lose
thereby. Particularly, may Divine Providence secure
the persons of their labourers from damps and other
casualties, which have happened to many, when the
earth, though cruel to kill, was courteous to bury, them

by the same mischance. Wortkies: Devon. The farewell.

The Faithful Minister

However, let every minister take up this resolution :
'To preach the word, to be instant in season, out of
season ; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all long-suffering
and doctrine.' If thou hast competent means comfort-
ably to subsist on, be the more thankful to God the
Fountain, to man the channel ; painful in thy place, pitiful
to the poor, cheerful in spending some, careful in keeping
the rest. If not, yet retire not for want of a spur.
Do something for love, and not all for money ; for love
of God, of goodness, of the godly, of a good conscience.
Know, it is better to want means, than to detain them ;
the one only suffers, the other deeply sins : and it is as
dangerous a persecution to religion, to draw the fuel
from it, as to cast water on it. Comfort thyself that
another world will pay this world's debts, ' and great is
thy reward with God in heaven : ' a reward, in respect
of his promise ; a gift, in respect of thy worthlessness :
and yet the less thou lookest at it, the surer thou shall
find it, if labouring with thyself to serve God for Him-
self;

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self; in respect of whom even heaven itself is but a
sinister end. Holy state, b. iii. c. xxv. s.

Misprints in Bibles

Many impressions of English Bibles, printed at
Amsterdam, and more at Edinburgh in Scotland, were
daily brought over hither, and sold here. Little their
volumes, and low their prices, as being of bad paper,
worse print, little margin, yet greater than the care of
the corrector, — many most abominable errata being
passed therein. Take one instance for all : — Jeremiah
iv. 1 7, speaking of the whole commonwealth of Judah,
instead of, ' Because she hath been rebellious against
me, saith the Lord ; ' it is printed, (Edinburgh, 1637,)
'because she hath been religious against me, saith
the Lord.' ca. /rii/. b. xi. s. viii. 29.

Missionary Difficulties

Those make short miles who, looking through a
window, travel a day's journey in an instant ; whilst
wayfaring men must honestly pay for every step, and
dearly earn it with their industry. It is facile for men,
in their pleasing speculations, to project the conversion
of a kingdom, and with themselves to discourse a
Heathen nation into Christianity, whilst those must
encounter many difficulties who really go about to
perform it. id. b. ii. s. i. 3.

Christ employed fishermen for the first preachers of
the Gospel, as who, being acquainted with the water, and

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which otherwise would have been starved; and better
it is, two drones should be fed, than one bee famished.
We see the heavens themselves, in dispensing their rain,
often water many stinking bogs and noisome lakes,
which moisture is not needed by them, (yea, they the
worse for it,) only because much good ground lies in-
separably intermingled with them; so that, either the
bad with the good must be watered, or the good with
the bad must be parched away.

Ck. Hist. B. vi. Abbeys, S. u. C. v. n.

Spoliation of the Monasteries

But alas ! those abbeys were now sold to such
chapmen, in whom it was questionable whether their
ignorance or avarice were greater ; and they made havoc
and destruction of all. As brokers in Long-lane, when
they buy an old suit, buy the linings together with the
outside; so it was conceived meet, that such as
purchased the buildings of monasteries should, in the
same grant, have the libraries (the stuffing thereof)
conveyed unto them. And now these ignorant owners,
so long as they might keep a ledger-book or terrier, by
direction thereof to find such straggling acres as belonged
unto them, they cared not to preserve any other
monuments. The covers of books, with curious brass
bosses and clasps, intended to protect, proved to betray
them, being the baits of covetousness. And so, many
excellent authors, stripped out of their cases, were left
naked, to be burned or thrown away. Thus .^Esop's
cock, casually lighting on a pearl, preferred a grain
before it; yet he left it as he found it; and as he

reaped

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reaped no profit by the pearl, it received no damage
by him. Whereas these cruel cormorants, with their
barbarous beaks and greedy claws, rent, tore, and
tattered these inestimable pieces of antiquity. Who
would think, that the Fathers should be condemned
to such servile employment, as to be scavengers, to
make clean the foulest sink in men's bodies? Yea,
which is worse, many an ancient manuscript Bible cut
in pieces, to cover filthy pamphlets ! So that a case
of diamond hath been made to keep dirt within it ; yea,
' the Wise Men of Gotham,' bound up in ' the Wisdom

of Solomon.' id. B. vi. AUeys, S. v. C. iii. :<.

The Suppression of the Monasteries

Ten thousand persons were by this Dissolution sent
to seek their fortunes in the wide world. Some, indeed,
had fathers or friends to receive them, others none at all.
Some had twenty shillings given them at their ejection,
and a new gown, which needed to be of strong cloth to
last so long till they got another. Most were exposed to
want. I see no such certainty for a comfortable liveli-
hood as a lawful calling ; for monkish profession was no
possession, and many a young nun proved an old beggar.
I pity not those who had hands and health to work ; but,
surely, the gray hairs of some impotent persons deserved
compassion J and I am confident such, had they come
to the doors of the charitable reader hereof, should have
had a meal's meat and a night's lodging given unto them.

Id. B. vi. Abbeys, S. iii. 6.

The

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The First Monks

Their Pious Employment in a Solitary Life

Here they in the deserts hoped to find rocks, and
stocks, yea, beasts themselves, more kind than men had
been to them. What would hide and heat, cover and
keep warm, served them for clothes, not placing (as their
successors in after-ages) any holiness in their habit,
folded up in the affected fashion thereof As for their
food, the grass was their cloth, the ground their table,
herbs and roots their diet, wild fruits and berries their
dainties, hunger their sauce, their nails their knives, their
hands their cups, the next well their wine-cellar. But
what their bill-of-fare wanted in cheer, it had in grace ;
their life being constantly spent in prayer, reading,
musing, and such like pious employments. They turned
solitariness itself into society ; and, cleaving themselves
asunder by the divine art of meditation, did make, of
one, two or more opposing, answering, moderating in
their own bosoms, and busy in themselves with variety
of heavenly recreations. It would do one good even but
to think of their goodness, and at the re-bound and
second-hand to meditate on their meditations. For if
ever poverty was to be envied, it was here. And I
appeal to the moderate men of these times, whether in
the height of these woful wars, they have not sometimes
wished, (not out of passionate distemper, but serious
recollection of themselves,) some such private place to
retire unto, where, out of the noise of this clamorous
world, they might have reposed themselves, and served
God with more quiet. ca. Hist. b. vi. s. i. ..

Monstrous

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Monstrous Opinions

It is the happiness nature indulgeth to monsters, that
they are all barren ; whereas, on the contrary, monstrous
positions are most procreative of the like, or worse than
themselves. id. b. x. s. iv. s.

Mount Edgecumbe

I WRITE not this to tempt the reader to the breach of
the tenth commandment, 'to covet his neighbour's
house ; ' and one line in the prevention thereof. I have
been credibly informed that the duke of Medina Sidonia,
admiral of the Spanish fleet in the year eighty-eight, was
so affected at the sight of this house (though but
beholding it at a distance, from the sea) that he resolved
it for his own possession in the partage of this kingdom
(blame him not if choosing best for himself), which they
pre-conquered in their hopes and expectation. But he
had catched a great cold, had he had no other clothes
to wear than those which were to be made of a skin of a

bear not yet killed. Worthies: Comwall. Buildings.

Mulberry Trees

Mulberry trees (pardon a digression) were plentiful
in Palestine. A tree which may pass for the emblem of
prudence, slow in consultation, swift in execution, for it
putteth forth its leaves the last of all trees, but then (as
it is said) all in one night, as if, sensible of and ashamed
for its former neglect, she endeavours to overtake other
trees with her double diligence. Men feed on the fruit,

silkworms

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silkworms on the leaves thereof ; creatures contemptible
in themselves, admirable in their qualities, appearing
Proteus-like in sundry shapes in the same year, eggs,
worms, flies, finishing for the most part yearly their life
and work together. But we leave these mysteries to be
discussed by naturalists, and will only add, that if the
original of silk were well considered, gallants had small
cause to be proud of gay clothes, for from worms it
came, and to worms shall the wearers thereof return.

Pisgak Sights B. ii. C. xiv. 23.

Music

Music is nothing else but wild sounds civilised into
time and tune. Such the extensiveness thereof, that it
stoopeth as low as brute beasts, yet mounteth as high
as angels : for horses will do more for a whistle than for
a whip ; and, by hearing their bells, gingle away their
weariness. . . .

I confess there is a company of pretenders to music,
who are commonly called crowders, and that justly too,
because they crowd into the company of gentlemen both
unsent for, and unwelcome ; but these are no more a
disgrace to the true professors of that faculty, than
monkeys are a disparagement to mankind. . . .

Right glad I am, that when music was lately shut out
of our churches, on what default of hers I dare not to
inquire, it hath since been harboured and welcomed in
the halls, parlours, and chambers, of the primest persons
of this nation. Sure I am, it could not enter into my
head, to surmise that music would have been so much
discouraged by such who turned our kingdom into a

Commonwealth,

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Commonwealth, seeing they prided themselves in the
arms thereof, an impaled harp being moiety of the same.
When it was asked, ' what made a good musician ? ' one
answered, a good voice ; another, that it was skill. But
he said the truth, who said, it was encouragement. It
was therefore my constant wish, that seeing most of our
musicians were men of maturity, and arrived at their full
age and skill, before these distracted times began, and
seeing what the historian wrote in another sense is true
here in our acceptation and application thereof, 'Res est
unius seculi populus virorum ; ' I say, I did constantly
wish, that there might have been some seminary of youth
set up, to be bred in the faculty of music, to supply
succession, when this set of masters in that science had
served their generation.

Yet although I missed of what I did then desire ; yet,
thanks be to God, I have lived to see music come into
request, since our nation came into right tune, and begin
to flourish in our churches and elsewhere ; so that now
no fear but we shall have a new generation skilful in that
science, to succeed such whose age shall call upon them
to pay their debt to nature. Worthies, c. x.

Expect not here from me a panegyric in praise of
music (either in itself, or reference to God's service),
though in Scripture appearing instrumental to qualify
evil (i Sam. xvi. 23), and invite good spirits (2 Kings
iii. 15), heighten devotion both in men and angels;
seeing charity and melody, loving and singing, is almost
all we find expressed of celestial happiness. Nor can

N any

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any truly tax music, as the children their mates in
the market place — 'We have piped, and ye have not
danced ; we have mourned, and ye have not lamented '
(Mat. xi. 17); seeing such the sociableness of Music,
it conforms itself to all companies, both in mirth and
mourning, complying to improve that passion with which
it finds the auditors most affected. In a word, it is an
invention which might have beseemed a son of Seth to
have been the father thereof; though better it was that
Cain's great-grandchild should have the credit first to
find it, than the world the unhappiness longer to have
wanted it. pisg-ak sight, b. iu. c. ii. s. x. 2.

Music is sweetest near or over rivers, where the echo
thereof is best rebounded by the water. Praise for
pensiveness, thanks for tears, and blessing God over the
floods of affliction, makes the most melodious music in
the ear of Heaven.

Cause and Cure of a Wounded Conscience, ad Jin.

Mysteries

How quickly are mysteries made blasphemies when

Ch. Hist. B. ix.

unskilful hands meddle with them !

Nails

These are the accommodators generally to unite solid
bodies, and to make them to be continuous : yea, coin
of gold and silver may be better spared in a common-
wealth than nails ; for commerce may be managed

without

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without money by exchange of commodities, whereas
hard bodies cannot be joined together so fast, and fast
so soon and soundly, without the mediation of nails.

Such their service for firmness and expedition, that
iron nails will fasten more in an hour than wooden pins
in a day, because the latter must have their way made,
whilst the former make way for themselves.

Worthies: Stafford. Manufactures.

Names

If it should chance, through the indiscretion of parents
and god-fathers, that a bad name should be imposed on
any, O let not ' folly ' be ' with ' them, because Nabal is
their name ; but in such a case let them strive to falsify,
disprove, and confute their names. Otherwise, if they
be good, they must answer them.

In the days of Queen Elizabeth, there was a royal
ship called ' The Revenge,' which, having maintained a
long fight against a fleet of Spaniards, (wherein eight
hundred great shot were discharged against her,) was at
last fain to yield : but no sooner were her men gone out
of her, and two hundred fresh Spaniards come into her,
but she suddenly sunk them and herself ; and so ' The
Revenge ' was revenged. Ruth, \. 20.

Natvire Puzzles

The foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the

weakness of God is stronger than men : so the dis-

portings of the God of nature are more grave than the

most serious employment of men : for such riddles are

N 2 propounded

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propounded on purpose to pose those profound shallow
Rabbis, counting themselves of the cabinet, when they
are scarcely of the common council, of Nature; so
unable to read such riddles, that they cannot put the
letters thereof together with any probability.

IVorthies : Gloucester. Wonders.

The Royal Navy

Queen Elizabeth erected a navy royal (continued
and increased by her successors) of the best ships
Europe ever beheld. Indeed much is in the matter,
the excellency of our English oak ; more in the making,
the cunning of our shipwrights ; most in the manning, the
courage of our seamen ; and yet all to God's blessing,
who so often hath crowned them with success. . . .

I am credibly informed, that that mystery of ship-
wrights, for some descents, hath been preserved suc-
cessively in families, of whom the Petts about Chatham
are of singular regard. 'Good success have they with
their skill ; ' and carefully keep so precious a pearl, lest
otherwise amongst many friends some foes attain unto it !
It is no monopoly which concealeth that from common
enemies, the concealing whereof is for the common good.
May this mystery of ship-making in England never be
lost, till this floating world be arrived at its own haven,
the end and dissolution thereof! . . .

I confine this (the strength) only to the timber whereof
they are made, our English oak being the best in the
world. True it is (to our shame and sorrow be it written
and read) the Dutch of late have built them some
ships of English oak, which (through the negligence or

covetousness

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covetousness of some great ones) was bought here and
transported hence. But the best is, that, as Bishop
Latimer once said to one who had preached his sermon,
that he had gotten his fiddlestick but not his rosin, so
the Hollanders with our timber did not buy also our art
of ship-building. . . .

Being to take our leave of these our wooden walls;
first, I wish that they may conquer with their mast and
sails, without their guns ; that their very appearance may
fright their foes into submission.

But if, in point of honour or safety, they be necessitated
to engage, may they always keep the wind of the enemy,
that their shot may fly with the greater force, and that
the smoke of their powder, pursuing the foe, may drive
him to fire at hazard ! May their gunner be in all places
of the ship, to see where he can make a shot with the
best advantage ; their carpenter and his crew be always
in the hold, presently to drive in a wooden plug (whereas
a shot comes betwixt wind and water), and to clap a
board with tar and camel's hair upon it till the dispute
be over; their chirurgeon and his assistants be in the
same place (out of danger of shot) to dress the wounded ;
their captain be in the uppermost, the lieutenant in
every part of the ship, to encourage the seamen : the
chaplain at his devotions, to importune heaven for
success, and encouraging all by his good counsel, if time

will permit ! Worthies : Kent. Navy Royal.

Needles

The use hereof is right ancient, though sewing was
before needles ; for we read that our first parents made

themselves

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themselves aprons by sewing fig-leaves together, either
fastening them with some glutinous matter, or with some
sharp thing joining them together.

A pin is a blind needle, a needle a pin with an eye.
What nails do in solid, needles do in supple bodies,
putting them together; only they remain not there
formally, but virtually, in the thread which they leave
behind them. It is the woman's pencil ; and embroidery
vesits acu picta is the master-piece thereof. I say em-
broidery, much used in former, neglected in our age,
wherein modern gallants (affecting variety of suits) desire
that their clothes should be known by them, and not, as
our ancestors, they by their clothes, one suit of state
serving them for several solemnities.

This industrious instrument, needle, quasi ne idle (as
some will have it), maintaineth many millions. Yea, he
who desireth a blessing on the plough and the needle
(including that in the card and compass) comprehendeth
most employments at home and abroad, by land and
by sea.

All I will add is this : that the first fine Spanish
needles in England were made in the reign of queen
Mary, in Cheapside, by a negro ; but such his envy, that
he would teach his art to none ; so that it died with
him. More charitable was Elias Crowse, a German, who,
coming over into England about the eighth of queen
Elizabeth, first taught us the making of Spanish needles ;
and since we have taught ourselves the using of them.

Worthies : London. Manu/aciures.

Negroes

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Negroes

Our captain counts the image of God, nevertheless,
his image cut in ebony as if done in ivory ; and in the
blackest Moors he sees the representation of the King of
heaven. ^^^^ ^^^^^_ 3 ii ^ ^^^ ^

Neutrality

Just it is with God, that they should be strained in
the twist, who stride so wide as to set their legs in two
opposite sides. Indeed, an upright shoe may fit both
feet, but never saw I a glove that would serve both hands.
Neutrality in matters of an indifferent nature may fit well ;
but never suits well in important matters, of far different
conditions. /^. b. iv. c. v. 14.

The Conception of Nonconformity

Come we now to the saddest difference that ever
happened in the church of England, if we consider either
the time, how long it continued, the eminent persons
therein engaged, or the doleful effects thereby produced.
It was about matters of conformity. Alas ! that men
should have less wisdom than locusts ; which, when sent
on God's errand, did ' not thrust one another,' whereas
here such shoving and shouldering, and hoisting and
heavings, and jostling and thronging, betwixt clergymen
of the highest parts and places. For now nonconformity
in the days of king Edward was conceived; which
afterward, in the reign of queen Mary, (but beyond sea
at Frankfort,) was born; which in the reign of queen
Elizabeth was nursed and weaned ; which, under king

James,

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James, grew up a young youth, or tall stripling ; but,
towards the end of king Charles's reign, shot up to the
full strength and stature of a man, able, not only to cope
with, but conquer, the hierarchy, its adversary.

C4. ff:s/. B. vii. S. i. 23.

Three Sorts of Nonconformists

We must not forget, that this earnest contest was not
about the calling, but clothes — not the vocation, but
only about the vestments — of bishops. Whereupon the
judicious reader will distinguish three ranks (or, if the
word be better liked, three classes) of nonconformists,
according to their several dates and designs : —

1. Ancient nonconformists, here in king Edward's
days, who desired only to shake down the leaves of
episcopacy, misliking only some garments about them.

2. Middle nonconformists, in the end of queen
Elizabeth and beginning of king James, who struck at
the branches thereof, — chancellors and officials, and
other appendant limbs, which they endeavoured to
remove.

3. Modern nonconformists, who did lay 'the axe to
the root of the tree,' to cut down the function itself, as
unlawful and anti-christian.

Thus after-ages still made new additions, as if it would
be accounted idleness in them, if the strong and active
legs of the sons and nephews should not go faster and
farther, than the old and feeble feet of their fathers and
grandfathers. z^. b. vii. s. i. 30.

Numeration

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Numeration

And indeed number cannot create a new kind; so that
many trespasses cannot make a riot, many riots one
treason, no more than many frogs can make one toad.

Worthies .• Lotid. Writers,

Nunneries

Nunneries were good she-schools, wherein the girls
and maids of the neighbourhood were taught to read and
work ; and sometimes a little Latin was taught them
therein. Yea, give me leave to say, if such feminine
foundations had still continued, provided no vow were
obtruded upon them, (virginity is least kept where it is
most constrained,) haply the weaker sex (beside the
avoiding modern inconveniences) might be heightened
to a higher perfection than hitherto hath been attained.
The sharpness of their wits, and suddenness of their
conceits, which their enemies must allow unto them,
might by education be improved into a judicious solidity,
and that adorned with arts, which now they want, not
because they cannot learn, but are not taught them. I
say, if such feminine foundations were extant now-of-
days, haply some virgins of highest birth would be glad
of such places; and, I am sure, their fathers and elder
brothers would not be sorry for the same.

Ch. Hist. B. vi. Abbeys, S. ii.

Oak

England hath the best in the world, not for fineness,
but firmness. Indeed outlandish oaks have a smaller

grain.

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grain, and therefore fitter for wainscot ; and whilst they
make the best Hnings, our English oak is the substantial
outside.

The best in England is in Dean Forest in this county,
and most serviceable for shipping ; so tough that, when
it is dry, it is said to be as hard as iron. I have read,
that, in the reign of queen Elizabeth, the Spaniard sent
an ambassador over purposely to get this wood destroyed
(by private practices and cunning contrivances) : who,
had he effected his embassy, deserved a good reward at
his return. It is suspicious, if not timely prevented,
carelessness and waste will gratify the Spaniard with
what then he could not accomplish.

IVorthies: Gloucester, Natural Commodities.

Oaks diminishing

One asked, when beech would make the best timber ?
meaning what season of the year was best to cut it down
for that purpose. It was answered, 'that beech would
make the best timber when no oak was to be had ; '
a time, I assure you, which daily approacheth in our

lane Worthies : Bucks. Natural Comuwdities.

The Oak and the Acorn

Many see the oak when grown, (especially if a standard
of remark), whilst few, if any, remember the acorn when

it was set. worthies.- C. xxi.

Omens of Death

It is reported by credible and believed by discreet
persons, that there is a pool adjoining to Brereton, the
seat of the honourable family of the Breretons, wherein

bodies

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bodies of trees are seen to swim for certain days together
before the death of any heir of that house. If so, let not
all men look for so solemn summons to pay their debts to
Nature. God grant us that grey hairs, dimness of sight,
dulness of other senses, decay in general of strength,
death of our dearest relations (especially when far younger
than ourselves) before our eyes, &c. may serve us (instead
of swimming logs), and be sanctified unto us, for sufficient
and eifectual monitors of our mortality !

iVorthies : Cheshire. Wonders.

Non omnia possumus omnes

Now, many and fierce the conflicts of Friars against
Mr. Latimer, especially after he had preached at St.
Edward's the Sunday before Christmas, on the question
of the priests to the Baptist, (parcel of the Gospel
appointed for the day), John i. 19, Tu quis es? 'Who
art thou ? ' It seems, he suited his sermon rather to the
time than the text, thereby taking occasion to conform
his discourse to the playing at cards, making the Heart
triumph, and exhorting all to serve God in sincerity and
truth, not in the glistering show of men's ceremonies,
traditions, pardons, pilgrimages, vows, devotions, &c.
Now, show me not the sermon, but show me the souls
converted thereby. This blunt preaching was in those
dark days admirably effectual, which would justly be
ridiculous in our age. I remember in my time a country-
minister preached at St. Mary's ; his text, Rom. xii. 3,
' As God hath dealt to every man a measure of faith.'
In a fond imitation of Latimer's card-sermon, he pro-
secuted the metaphor oi dealing, that men should //aj'

above-board,

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above-board, that is, avoid all dissembling, not pocket
cards, but improve their gifts and graces, follow suit,
wear the surplice, and conform in ceremonies, &c. All
produced nothing but laughter in the audience. Thus the
same actions are, by several persons and times, made not
the same actions, yea, differenced from commendable dis-
cretion to ridiculous absurdity. And thus he will make but
bad music, who hath the instrument and fiddlestick, but
none of the rosin, of Mr. Latimer. Hht. Camb. s. vi. 38.

Changing Opinions

Some think it beneath a wise man to alter their
opinion : a maxim both false and dangerous. We know
what worthy Father wrote his own ' Retractation ' ; and
it matters not though we go back from our word, so we
go forward in the truth and a sound judgment.

Holy State, B. iv. C. v. 4.

Ordeal by Fire

Emma, king Edward's mother, being suspected too
familiar with Alwin bishop of Winchester, under the
colour of devotion, put herself to be tried by ordeal;
whereof this the manner : Nine plough-shares, glowing
hot, were laid on the ground, one foot distant from
another ; the party suspected was to be brought blind-
folded, and bare-footed to pass over them. If he chanced
to step in the intervals, or on the hot iron unhurt, he
was pronounced ' innocent,' otherwise condemned for an
offender. An unjust law, wherein the triers had no
precept, the tried no promise. Must innocence be
ruined as often as malice would wrong it, if miracle would

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not rescue it ? This was not a way to try man, but tempt
God : as just a trying by fire, as that of our modern witches
by water. This trial queen Emma admirably underwent,
not sensible of the plough-shares till past them, saying to
such as led her, ' O, when shall I come to the place of
my purgation ? ' c*. Hist. b. ii. s. vi. 14.

Outside Appearance

Some people, handsome by nature, have wilfully de-
formed themselves. — Such as wear Bacchus's colours
in their faces, arising not from having — but being — bad
livers. Should God survey the faces of many men and
women, he would not own and acknowledge them for
those whom he created : many are so altered in colour,
and some in sex, women to men and men to women
in their monstrous fashions ; so that they who behold
them cannot, by the evidence of their apparel, give up
their verdict of what sex they are. It is most safe to call
the users of these hermaphroditical fashions, ' Francisses '
and ' Philips,' names agreeing to both sexes.

Holy State, B. iii. C. xv. 4.

That the sable faces of blackamoors come not from
the sun, but some other secret cause plainly appears,
because ebony and ivory, I mean black and fair faces, are
found in parallel climates. pugah sight, ad fin.

Oxford and Cambridge

My prayers shall be, that each university may turn all
envy into generous, yea, gracious, yea, glorious emulation ;

contending

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contending by laudable means, which shall surpass other
in their serviceableness to God, the church, and common-
wealth ; that so, commencing in piety, and proceeding in
learning, they may agree against their two general ad-
versaries, ignorance and profaneness. May it never
be said of them, what Naomi said of herself, that she
was too old to bear sons ! May they never be super-
annuated into barrenness, but, like the good trees in
God's garden, ' they shall still bring forth in their old
age, they shall be fat and flourishing.' qh. Hist. b. ii. 59.

Oxford: the Colleges

Of the colleges, University is the oldest, Pembroke the
youngest, Christ Church the greatest, Lincoln (by many
reputed) the least, Magdalen the neatest, Wadham the
most uniform, New College the strongest, and Jesus
College (no fault but its unhappiness) the poorest ; and
if I knew which was the richest, T would not tell, seeing
concealment in this kind is the safest. New College
is most proper for southern, Exeter for western. Queen's
for northern, Brasen-nose for north-western men, St.
John's for Londoners, Jesus for Welshmen ; and at other
colleges almost indifferently for men of all countries.
Merton hath been most famous for schoolmen. Corpus
Christi (formerly called Trilingue Collegium) for linguists,
Christ Church for poets. All-souls for orators. New
College for civilians, Brasen-nose for disputants, Queen's
College for metaphysicians, Exeter for a late series of
Regius professors; Magdalen for ancient, St. John's
for modern, prelates ; and all eminent in some one kind
or other. And if any of these colleges were transported

into

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into foreign parts, it would alter its kind (or degree at
least) and presently of a college proceed an university,
as equal to most, and superior to many, academies beyond

the seas. worthies: Oxfordshire. Buildings.

The Good Parent

He showeth them, in his own practice, what to follow
and imitate ; and, in others, what to shun and avoid. —
For though ' the words of the wise be as nails fastened
by the masters of the assemblies,' (Eccles. xii. 11,) yet,
sure, their examples are the hammer to drive them in,
to take the deeper hold. A father that whipped his
son for swearing, and swore himself whilst he whipped
him, did more harm by his example than good by his
correction, . . .

He doth not give away his loaf to his children, and
then come to them for a piece of bread. — He holds the
reins (though loosely) in his own hands ; and keeps,
to reward duty, and punish undutifulness. Yet, on
good occasion, for his children's advancement, he will
depart from part of his means. Base is their nature who
■will not have their branches lopped, till their body be
felled; and will let go none of their goods, as if it
presaged their speedy death : whereas it doth not follow,
that he that puts off his cloak must presently go to

bed. Holy state, B. i. C. v. i, 8.

Passions

Passions, like heavy bodies down steep hills, once
in motion move themselves, and know no ground but

the bottom. Holy War, B. i. C. xvii.

The

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The Pastorells

An Hungarian peasant, who is said to have been an
apostate to Mahomet and well learned, gathered together
many thousands of people, pretending they had in-
telligence from heaven to march to the Holy Land.
These took on them the name and habit oi Fastorelli,
poor shepherds ; in imitation belike (as the devil is
God's ape) of those in the gospel, who were warned
by angels in a vision to go to Bethlehem.

Being to shape their course into Palestine, they went
into France ; showing they had a vertigo in their heads,
mistaking the west for the east; or else, that like vagabonds
they were never out of their way.

The holy Lamb was their ensign, but their actions
neither holy nor lamb-like. They pillaged and killed
the poor Jews as they went (an unhappy nation, whose
heads lie pat for every one's hands to hit, and their
legs so stand in men's way that few can go by them
without spurning at them) ; where they wanted Jews,
they made Jews of Christians, especially if they were
rich, using them with all cruelty. But at last near
Bourdeaux threescore thousand of them were slain, and
the rest dispersed. A rhymer of that age (or in courtesy
call him a poet) made this epitaph on them : —

M semel, et bis C, L, I, conjungere disce ;
Duxit pastorum sava Megtsra chorum.

Learn to put together well,
What M, C, C, L, I, do spell;
When some devilish fiend in France
Did teach the shepherds how to dance.

Holy War, B. iv. C. xxi.

Peace

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Peace and War

Generally those who are best with their fingers are
worst with their arms. Holy War, b. u. c. xii.

Pins

A PIN passeth for that which is next to nothing, or
(if you will) is the terminus a quo from which something
doth begin, and proceed from a pin to a pound, &c.
However it is considerable both as hurtful and useful;
hurtful, if advantageously placed it inay prove as mortal
as a poignard, the life of the greatest man lying at the
mercy of the meanest thing ; useful, not only to fasten
our ornaments, but fill up the chinks betwixt our
clothes, lest wind and weather should shoot through them.

Many and very good of these are made in this county ;
a commodity not to be slighted, since the very dust that
falls from them is found profitable. We commonly say
that it is not beneath a proper person to stoop to take
up a pin, until he be worth ten thousand pounds,
according to the thrifty rule in Latin, Qui negligit minima
nunquam ditescet. Such who admire that so many miUions
of pins, made, sold, used, and lost in England, should
vanish away invisible, may rather wonder how so many
that wear them (being no more than pins in the hands of
their Maker) do decay, die, and slip down in the dust, in

silence and obscurity. WorthUs: Yorks. Manufactures.

Point of View

A mother-in-law's sermon seldom takes well with an
audience of daughter-in-laws. ... No razor will cut a

stony heart. ""^ ^^"t'' ^- ^- ^- "•

o Extemporary

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Extemporary Prayers

In extemporary prayer, what men most admire God
least regardeth. Namely, the volubility of the tongue.
Herein a Tertullus may equal, yea exceed, Saint Paul
himself, whose speech was but mean. O, it is the heart
keeping time and tune with the voice which God listeneth
unto. Otherwise the nimblest tongue tires, and loudest
voice grows dumb before it comes half way to heaven.
Make it, said God to Moses, in all things like the pattern
in the mount. Only the conformity of the words with
the mind, mounted up in heavenly thoughts, is acceptable
to God. The gift of extemporary prayer, ready utterance,
may be bestowed on a reprobate, but the grace thereof
(religious affections) is only given to God's servants.

Good Thoughts in Worse Times: Prayer^, 7.

Preferment

' But neither the best, nor the most painful and learned,
get the best preferment. Sometimes men bf the least —
get livings of the best — worth ; yea, such as are not
worthy to be the curates to their curates, and crassa
ingenia go away with opima sacerdotia.'

Thus it ever was, and will be. But is this dust only
to be found in churches, and not in civil courts? Is
merit every where else made the exact square of pre-
ferment ? Or did ever any urge, that all offices should
be made champaign for their profits, none higher than
other? Such corruptions will ever be in the church,
except there were a law, (ridiculous to be made, and
impossible to be kept!) that men should be no-men;

but

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but that all patrons or people, in their election or
presentations of ministers, should wholly divest them-
selves of by-respects of kindred, friendship, profit,
affection, and merely choose for desert : and then
should we have all things so well-ordered, such pastors
and such people, the church in a manner would be
triumphant whilst mihtant. Till then, though the best
livings light not always on the ablest men, yet, as
long as there be such preferments in the church,
there are still encouragements for men to endeavour
to excel ; all hoping, and some happening, on ad-
vancement. Holy state, B. iii. C. xxv. 8.

Prejudice
Those enterprises need a strong hand, which are
thrown against the bias of people's hearts and con-
sciences, •'''• ^- '"• '-■ ""'•

Presentation Copies
To conclude, should I present all with books, who
courteously have conduced to my instruction, the whole
impression would not suffice. But I remember the
no less civil than politic invitation of Judah to the tribe
of Simeon, ' Come up with me into my lot [to conquer
the Canaanites], and I likewise will go with thee into
thy lot.' If such who have lent me theirs, shall have
occasion to borrow mine assistance, my pains, brains,
and books, are no more mine than theirs to command ;
which, besides my prayers for them, and thanks to them,
is all my ability in requital can perform.

JVorthies. C. xxiii.

o 2 Different

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Different Prices

Now we must know, there be four several prices of
vendible things : First, the price of the market, which
ebbs and flows according to the plenty or scarcity of
coin, commodities, and chapmen. Secondly, the price
of friendship ; which, perchance, is more giving than
selling, and therefore not so proper at this time.
Thirdly, the price of fancy ; as twenty pounds, or
more, for a dog or hawk, when no such inherent
worth can naturally be in them, but by the buyer's
and seller's fancy reflecting on them. Yet, I believe,
the money may be lawfully taken : First, because the
seller sometimes, on those terms, is as loath to forego
it, as the buyer is willing to have it. And I know
no standard herein, whereby men's affections may be
measured. Secondly, it being a matter of pleasure,
and men able and willing, let them pay for it : Volenti
non fit injuria. Lastly, there is the price of cozen-
age ; which our merchant from his heart detests and

abhors. Holy state, B. ii. C. xvii. 4. '

Pride

Pride is the greatest enemy to moderation. — This
makes men stickle for their opinions, to make them
fundamental. Proud men, having deeply studied some
additional point in divinity, will strive to make the
same necessary to salvation, to enhance the value of
their own worth and pains ; and it must be fundamental
in religion, because it is fundamental to their reputation.
Yea, as love doth descend, and men doat most on their

grandchildren ;

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197

grandchildren ; so these are indulgent to the deductions
of their deductions and consequential inferences to the
seventh generation, making them all of the foundation,
though scarce of the building, of religion. Ancient
Fathers made 'the Creed,' Symbolum, the shot and
total sum of faith. Since which, how many arrearages
and after-reckonings have men brought us in ? To
which if we will not pay our belief, our souls must
be arrested, without bail, upon pain of damnation.
Next to pride, popular applause is the greatest foe
moderation hath; and, sure, they who sail with that
wind have their own vain-glory for their haven.

Id. B. iii. C. XX. 6.

The Profit lies in the using

These abbey-lands, though skittish mares to some,
have given good milk to others : which is produced as
an argument, that if they prove unsuccessful to any,
it is the user's default, no inherency of a curse in the
things themselves. But let one keep an exact register of
lands, and mark their motions, how they ebb and flow
betwixt buyers and sellers, and surely he will say with
the poet, OuSfnoy oKKh. Tvxr)s- And this is most sure ;
let land be held in ever so good a tenure, it will never be
held by an unthrift. Holy War, b. v. c. 7.

Propagandism

The necessity of propagating the truth is error's plea
to divulge her falsehoods. Men, as naturally they desire
to know, so they desire what they know should be

known. /fo6' state, B. V. C. 107.

Bristol

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Bristol Proverb

' Bristol Milk '

Though as many elephants are fed as cows grazed
within the walls of this city, yet great plenty of this meta-
phorical milk, whereby xeres or sherry sack is intended.
Some will have it called milk, because (whereas nurses
give new-born babes in some places pap, in others water
and sugar) such wine is the first moisture given infants
in this city. It is also the entertainment of course,
which the courteous Bristolians present to all strangers,

when first visiting their city. Worthies: Bristol. Proverbs.

An Italian Proverb

It is confessed that Wales affordeth plenty of barren
places ; (yielding the benefit of the best air) ; but the
Italian humour of building hath not affected, not to say
infected, the British nation — I say the Italian humour,
who have a merry proverb, ' Let him that would be
happy for a day, go to the barber ; for a week, marry a
wife; for a month, buy him a new horse; for a year,
build him a new house; for all his life time, be an
honest-man.' But it seems that the Welsh are not
tempted to enjoy such short happiness for a year's

continuance.

Id. : Wales. Buildings.

A Welsh Proverb

' Give your Horse a Welsh Bait '
It seems it is the custom of the Welsh travellers,
when they have climbed up a hill (whereof plenty in these

parts),

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199

parts), to rein their horses backward, and stand still a
while, taking a prospect (or respect rather) of the country
they have passed. This they call a bait ; and, though a
peck of oats would do the palfrey more good, such a stop
doth (though not feed) refresh. Others call this a
Scottish bait; and I believe the horses of both moun-
tainous countries eat the same provender, out of the
same manger, on the same occasion.

Id.: Wales. Proverbs.

Punishments of God

God's punishments though they last sometimes long,
yet always they end at last : and yet sometimes for the
manifestations of his power, and trial of his children's
patience, he suffers them to be brought into great
extremities : Abraham's hand shall be heaved up to slay
Isaac, before the Angel shall catch hold of it : Lazarus
shall be three days dead, before Christ will raise him :
the ship ready to sink before our Saviour will awake:
Peter must be drencht in the water before our Saviour
will keep him from drowning : St. Paul must be in the
Hon's mouth, before he shall be delivered out of it : the
famine must last ten years, before God will give them

bread. Call. Serm. Comment. Ruth, i. 6.

Puritan

We must not forget, that Spalato (I am confident I
am not mistaken therein) was the first, who, professing
himself a protestant, used the word ' Puritan,' to signify
the defenders of matters doctrinal in the English church.
Formerly the word was only taken to denote such as

dissented

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dissented from the hierarchy in discipline and church-
government ; which now was extended to brand such as
were Anti-Arminians in their judgments. As Spalato
first abused the word in this sense, so we could wish he
had carried it away with him in his return to Rome.
Whereas, now leaving the word behind him in this
extensive signification thereof, it hath since by others
been improved to asperse the most orthodox in doctrine,
and religious in conversation. ca. Hht. b. x. s. 6. 19.

The Pyramids

The pyramids themselves, doting with age, have
forgotten the names of their founders.

Holy State, B. iii. C. xiv. 6.

Qualificatives and Blanks left in this History

I APPROVE the plain country by-word, as containing
much innocent simplicity therein :

' Almost and very nigh,
Have saved many a lie.'

So have the Latins \h€\r propi, ferl, juxta, drciter, plus,
minus, used in matters of fact by the most authentic
historians. Yea, we may observe, that the spirit of truth
itself, where numbers and measures are concerned, in
times, places, and persons, useth the aforesaid modifi-
catives, save in such cases where some mystery contained
in the number requireth a particular specification thereof.

None, therefore, can justly find fault with me, if on
the nice occasion I have secured myself with the same
qualificatives. Indeed such historians who grind their

intelligence

Ouciin^ CouneePe

20I

intelligence to the powder of fraction, pretending to
cleave the pin, do sometimes miss the butt. Thus one
reporteth how in the persecution under Dioclesian there
were neither under nor over, but just nine hundred
ninety-nine martyrs. Yea, generally those that trade in
such retail-ware, and deal in such small parcels, may by
the ignorant be commended for their care, but con-
demned by the judicious for their ridiculous curiosity.

But such who will forgive the use of our foresaid,
qualificatives, as but limping and lameness, will perchance
not pardon the many blanks which occur in this book,
accounting them no better than our flat falling to the
ground, in default of our industry for not seeking due
information. But let such know, that those officers, who
by their place are to find out persons inquired after,
deserve neither to be blamed nor shamed, when, having
used their best diligence, they return to the court a ' Non
est inventus.'

For my own part, I had rather my reader should arise
hungry from my book, than surfeited therewith ; rather
uninformed than misinformed thereby ; rather ignorant
of what he desireth, than having a falsehood, or, at the
best, a conjecture for a truth, obtruded upon him.

Indeed, I humbly conceive that vacuity, which is
hateful in nature, may be helpful in history : for such an
hiatus h&ggeith. of posterity, to take pains to fill it up
with a truth, if possible to be attained ; whereas, had
our bold adventure farced it up with a conjecture intus
existens prohibuerit extraneum no room had been left
for the endeavours of others. woHUes, c. xxi.

Some

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Some Questionable Expressions

Some high-flown expressions often knock at the door
of blasphemy, but yet not with any intention to enter in
thereat ; in which we are more to mind the sense than
the sound of the words. a. nut. b. iii. s. i. 31.

Quotations

Fuller. — Never had Herodotus given his nine books
the names of the nine Muses, if such was his abstemious-
ness from poetry. Not one of them, which is aa-vfi^Xos
in this kind ; and there are found in Cho, the first, no
fewer than thirty verses of the oracles of Pythia. As
those his books are fruitful, so his book of the Life of
Homer hath a superfetation of them ; so that if prose be
the warp, verses are the woof thereof. Whereas the
Animadvertor instances in Plutarch ; open at the Life of
Theseus, and we are presented with poetry therein.

But, grant no precedent in this nature in these authors ;
a more free genius acteth in modern than in ancient
historians, manumissed from the servilities they were tied
(or tied themselves) unto. The Animadvertor, like
another Empson, endeavoureth to revive the penal
statutes of history against me, (so to subject me to fine
for the breach thereof,) which time in effect hath
cancelled.

Qui scribit historicl, scribit miserl, if enslaved to'Tall
punctilios thereof. Let the Animadvertor keep those
steel bodices for his own wearing, and not force them on
me. What ! not a plait or a ruffle, more or less, but all
must be done in number, weight, and measure ! ac-
cording

Ouatn^ Cotttt0ep0

20'

cording to historical criticism ! This is not putting the
book, but the author himself, into the press.

Tacitus himself (here instanced in) would be tacitus
indeed, if all politic sentences and prudential results were
deleted in him, being trespasses on the preciseness of
history, confined to matter of fact. But well fare that
historian who will go out of his own way, to direct his

reaoer. Appeal of injured innocence : V. x.ans. Introduction.

Let me mind the reader to re-flect his eye on our
quotations, (the margin in such cases being as material
as the text, as containing the authors,) and his judgment
may, according to the credit or reference of the author
alleged, believe, or abate from, the reputation of the
report. Let me add, that, though it be a lie in the clock,
it is but a falsehood in the hand of the dial when pointing
at a wrong hour, if rightly following the direction of the
wheel which moveth it. And the fault is not mine, if I
truly cite what is false on the credit of another.

Ch. Hist. B. ix. S. vii. 22.

Rates and Taxes

A GRAVE divine in the west country (familiarly known
unto me), conceiving himself over-taxed, repaired to one
of the governors of the king's garrisons for to move for
some mitigation.

The governor perceiving the satin cap of this divine
to be torn. Fie, fie, said he, that a man of your quality
should wear such a cap ; the rats have gnawed it. Oh
no, sir, answered he, the rates have gnawed it.

The

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(5Oi0e (^otie ana

The print or impression of the teeth of taxes is visible
in the clothes of many men, yea, it hath corroded holes
in many men's estates. Yea, as Hatto archbishop of
Mentz is reported to have been eaten up by rats, so the
vermin of taxes, if continuing, is likely to devour our

nation. GmiI Thoughts : Mixt Cmtempl. on Better Times, 14,

Of Recreations

Recreations is a second creation, when weariness
hath almost annihilated one's spirits. It is the breathing
of the soul, which otherwise would be stifled with
continual business. We may trespass in them, if using
such as are forbidden by the — lawyer, as against the
statutes — physician, as against health — divine, as against
conscience.

Spill not the morning (the quintessence of the day !)
in recreations. — For sleep itself is a recreation. Add
not, therefore, sauce to sauce ; and he cannot properly
have any title to be refreshed, who was not first faint.
Pastime, like wine, is poison in the morning. It is then
good husbandry to sow the head, which hath lain fallow
all night, with some serious work. Chiefly, intrench not
on the Lord's day to use unlawful sports ; this were to
spare thine own flock, and to shear God's Iamb.

Take heed of boisterous and over-violent exercises.
— Ringing oft-times hath made good music on the bells,
and put men's bodies out of tune ; so that, by over-
heating themselves, they have rung their own passing-
bell.

Refresh that part of thyself which is most wearied. —
If thy life be sedentary, exercise thy body ; if stirring

and

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and active, recreate thy mind. But take heed of
cozening thy mind, in setting it to do a double task,
under pretence of giving it a play-day, as in the labyrinth
of chess, and other tedious and studious games. . . .

Choke not thy soul with immoderate pouring-in the
cordial of pleasures. The creation lasted but six days
of the first week. Profane they whose recreation lasts
seven days of every week. Rather abridge thyself of
thy lawful liberty herein : it being a wary rule which
St. Gregory gives us : So/us in illicitis non cadit, qui se
aliquando et a licitis caute restringit : and then recreations
shall both strengthen labour, and sweeten rest ; and we
may expect God's blessing and protection on us in
following them, as well as in doing our work. For he that
saith grace for his meat, in it prays also to God to bless the
sauce unto him. As for those that will not take lawful
pleasure, I am afraid they will take unlawful pleasure,
and, by lacing themselves too hard, grow awry on one

side. Holy state, B. Hi. C. xiii. i, 2, 4. 6, 11.

Reformation

A PERFECT reformation of any Church in this world
may be desired, but not hoped for. Let Xenophon's
Cyrus be King in Plato's Commonwealth, and bachelors'
wives breed maids' children in More's Utopia, whilst roses
grow in their gardens without prickles, as St. Basil held
they did before the fall of Adam.

These fancies are pleasing and plausible, but the per-
formance thereof unfeasable : and so is the perfect
reformation of a church in this world difficult to be
described, and impossible to be practised. For, besides

that

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that Satan will do his best, or rather his worst, to undoe
it, man in this life is not capable of such perfection.
Look not to find that in man out of Paradise, which was
not found in man in Paradise, continuance in an holy
estate. Martin Luther was wont to say he never knew
good order in the Church last after fifteen years in the
purity thereof; yea, the more perfect the reformation is,
the less time it is likely to last. Man's mind being in
constant motion, when it cannot ascend higher, will not
stand still, but it must decline.

I speak not this to dishearten men from endeavouring
a perfect reformation, but to keep them from being
disheartened, when they see the same cannot be exactly

observed. collected Serm. : On Re/ormatim.

'An imperfect Church.' I said it, and will say it
again : It was a truth before your cradle was made, and
will be one after your coffin is rotten.

Id. ; Truth maintained.

The Best Religion

If that religion were surely the best which is of the
greatest latitude and extent, surveyors of land were fitter
than divines to judge of the best religion.

Holy War, B. !v. C. 6.

The Measure of Remorse

General punishments must have general prayer and
humiliation; otherwise the plaster will be too narrow

for the sore.

Notes on Jonah, C. i. i.

Renouncing

Ottftittf Cottn0ef0

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Renouncing the World

About this time it grew fashionable with kings and
queens in England to renounce the world, and turn
monks and nuns, commonly in convents of their own
foundation. Surely, it is not only lawful, but com-
mendable, for men to leave the world before it leaveth
them, by 'being crucified thereunto, and using it as if
they used it not.' But let others dispute, whether this
properly be renouncing the world, — for Christians to
bury their parts and persons in a cloister, which, put forth
to the bank, would turn to good account for church and
commonwealth. David, I dare say, as holy a man as any
of these, lived a king, and died a king. The swaying of
his sceptre did not hinder the tuning of his harp; his
dignity being no impediment to his devotion. And
whilst these kings, turning monks, pretended to go out
of the world, a world of spiritual pride and superstition
went into them, if (as it is too, too suspicious) they had
a high opinion to merit heaven thereby.

Ch. Hist. B. ii. Cent. viii. 12.

Reticence

Sure I am, such who are ' peaceable and faithful in
Israel,' may nevertheless be 'mourners in Zion,' and
grieve at what they cannot mend, but must endure.
This also I know, that that spoke in the wheel which
creaketh most doth not bear the greatest burden in the
cart. The greatest complainers are not always the
greatest sufferers; whilst as much, yea, more, sincere
sorrow may be managed in secret silence, than with
querulous and clamorous obstreperousness ; and such,

who

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who will neither print nor preach satires on the times,
may make elegies on them in their own souls.

Appeal of Injured Innocence^ P. i. C. 14.

He knows Uttle, who will tell his wife all he knows.

Holy State, B. i. C. iii. 7.

A Retort

Dr. Heylin. — How wise the rest were, I am not able
to say. But certainly our author showed himself 'no
wiser than Waltham's calfj who ran nine miles to suck a
bull, and came home athirst,' as the proverb saith. His
running unto Oxford, which cost him as much in
seventeen weeks, as he had spent in Cambridge in
seventeen years, was but a second sally to the first
knight-errantry.

Fuller. — I can patiently comport with the Animad-
vertor's jeers ; which I behold as so many frogs, that it
is pretty and pleasing to see them hop and skip about,
having not much harm in them. But I cannot abide his
railings ; which are like to toads, swelling with venom
within them. Any one may rail who is bred but in
Billingsgate-College : and I am sorry to hear such
language from the Animadvertor, a Doctor in Divinity ;
seeing railing is as much beneath a Doctor, as against
Divinity.

When Dr. Turner, a physician sufficiently known, gave
the lie (at the earl of Pembroke's table) to the earl of
Carnarvon : ' I will take the lie from you ; ' replied the
earl, ' but I will never take physic from you.' If such

railing

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209

railing be consistent with the Doctor's Divinity, this
once I will take the calf, but never learn Divinity from
him.

Two things comfort me under his reviling. First.
That no worse man than David himself complained,
that he became ' a proverb to his enemies,' Psalm Ixix. 2.
Secondly. Though a calf be a contemptible creature,
passing for the emblem, not (with the dove) of simplicity,
but of plain silliness ; yet is it a clean one, and accepted
of God for sacrifice, Heb. ix. 19. Whereas the snarling
dog (though a creature of far more cunning and sagacity)
was so odious and unclean, that by a peculiar law it was
provided, that ' the price of a dog should not be brought
into the house of God,' Deut. xxiii. 18.

App. Inj. Inn. Pt. iii. B. xi. 268.

Another

Once king James in an afternoon was praising the
plentiful provision of England, especially for flesh and
fowl ; adding, the like not to be had in all Spain ,what
one county here did afford. 'Yea, but my master,'
quoth Gondemar, there present, 'hath the gold and
silver in the East and West Indies,' 'And I, by my
saul,' saith the king, ' have much ado to keep my men
from taking it away from him.' To which the don's
Spanish gravity returned silence. ck. Hist. b. x. s. vii. 32.

• It is pity they are not better situated -. I could always wish to see
a Diamond set in gold.' (Examiner.)

I CANNOT blame you especially if the Diamond be
their own. But what mean you by this expression?

p Would

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(^i0e (^ovb0 anb

Would you have had the Truths in my sermon to have
been set in the gold of rich and glittering language?
Truly I could not go to the cost thereof, especially in
so short warning wherein the sermon was made. How-
ever, a diamond is a diamond though set in horn,
whereby the lustre thereof may be somewhat dimmed,
but the worth thereof no whit diminished. But in
one respect I must confess these truths were ill selected :
that they stood too near to a captious reader who took

causeless exception to them, select: Serm. Truth Maintained.

Reward of Honest Effort

Such sums attained by their own industry, though
small in bulk, were great in blessing, a Divine bene-
diction being always invisibly breathed on painful and
lawful diligence. Thus the servant employed in making
and blowing of the fire, (though sent away thence as
soon as it burneth clear), oft-times getteth by his pains
a more kindly and continuing heat, than the master
himself, who sitteth down by the same ; and thus persons
industriously occupying themselves, thrive better on a
little of their own honest getting, than lazy heirs on the
large revenues left unto them. ch. Hist. b. viii. s. iu. 28.

Rich Kindred: Vain Hopes

So soon may men's expectations be frustrated, who
depend on rich kindred. Yea, I have seen the twine-
thread of a cordial friend hold, when the cable-rope of
a rich kinsman hath broken.

Let those therefore be thankful to God, to whom God
hath given means to be maintained of themselves, without

dependence

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211

dependence on their kindred. Better it is to be the
weakest of substances, to subsist of themselves, than
to be the bravest accidents, to be maintained by
another. rm.h.^.

King Richard's Ransom and the Chalices

At last he was ransomed for a hundred and forty
thousand marks, coUen weight. A sum so vast in that
age, before the Indies had overflowed all Europe with
their gold and silver, that to raise it in England they
were forced to sell their church plate, to their very
chalices. Whereupon out of most deep divinity it was
concluded, that they should not celebrate the sacrament
in glass, for the brittleness of it ; nor in wood, for the
sponginess of it, which would suck up the blood ; nor
in alchymy, because it was subject to rusting; nor in
copper, because that would provoke vomiting; but in
chalices of latten, which behke was a metal without
exception. And such were used in England for some
hundred years after, until at last John Stafford arch-
bishop of Canterbury, when the land was more replenished
with silver, inknotteth that priest in the greater excommu-
nication that should consecta.t& poculum stanneum.

Holy War, B. iii. C. xiii.

The Rickets

There is a disease of infants (and an infant disease,
having scarcely as yet gotten a proper name in Latin)
called the rickets ; wherein the head waxeth too great,
whilst the legs and lower parts wane too little. A woman
in the west hath happily healed many, by cauterizing
p 2 the

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the vein behind the ear. How proper the remedy for
the malady I engage not, experience ofttimes outdoing
art, whilst we behold the cure easily effected, and the
natural cause thereof hardly assigned.

Have not many nowadays the same sickness in their
souls? their heads swelling to a vast proportion and
they wonderfully enabled with knowledge to discourse ?
But, alas, how little their legs, poor their practice, and
lazy their walking in a godly conversation ! Shall I say
that such may be cured by searing the vein in their head,
not to hurt their hearing, but hinder the itching of their
ears?

Indeed his tongue deserves to be burnt that talks
of searing the ears of others ; for faith cometh by
hearing. But I would have men not to hear few
sermons, but hear more in hearing fewer sermons. Less
preaching better heard (reader, lay the emphasis not
on the word /ess, but on the word better), would make
a wiser and stronger Christian, digesting the word from
his heart to practise it in his conversation.

Good Thoughts in Worse Titnes^ Med. 19.

A Famous Road

Here let us hold a while, and desiring to please all
palates, let us temper the harshness of old matters with
the mixture of a modern passage. If the reader should
ever travel this way from Damascus to Jerusalem, and
so into Egypt, he may repose himself for a night in
the cave, east of the bridge, on the other side Jordan.
A cave is a public building erected by some devout
Turk in nature of an inn, for the benefit of travellers,

of

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of more or less receipt and conveniency, according to
the bounty or fancy of the founder. But here the guest
must be his own host to entertain himself, seeing
generally nothing but a bare lodging and water is pro-
vided for him. And though we pity the reader's bad
lodging this night, where (if not bringing better ac-
commodations with him) he and his camel must be
bed-fellows in straw; yet we promise him next day
a pleasant way and handsome entertainment. For about
seven miles off he shall pass by Cave Joseph, where
a well will be showed him full of water, and adorned
with marble pillars, which common tradition avoucheth
to be the pit wherein Joseph was put, and a learned
friar very zealously sticketh for the truth thereof, though
indeed the story is confuted both by the distance and
nature of the place. For it is sixty miles from Dothan,
near Shechem, where Joseph's brethren kept their sheep.
Besides, that pit had no moisture in it (save what fell
from the eyes of Joseph), whereas this is full of water,
so that Joseph's dreams had been but dreams if put
therein. But it is as good as a bait to tired travellers
(whose credulity is swifter than the camels they ride
on) to be refreshed in the way with such relations.
Some twelve miles off, the reader may lodge in a
convenient cave called Minium by the Moors, but by
the Turks Missia : and if early up next morning may,
going south-westward, before noon enter the tribe of
Zebulun, where we may in due time overtake him,
and hereafter give him larger direction for his travel.

Pisgah Sight, B. ii. C. iv. 13.

Why

Thomas
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(Pi0e (^or50 ftn5

Why the Church of Rome was esteemed First
and Chiefest

Anciently in the primitive time the church of Rome
was esteemed the first and chiefest of all others, but
without any jurisdiction above them. Because that was
the imperial city and queen of the world, therefore
the church therein was highest in account ; as the
candle which is in the fairest candlestick is always
set above the rest (though otherwise equal unto it in
light) at the upper end of the table, uoiy War, b. iv. c. iv.

Sabbatarianism in Queen Elizabeth's Time

It is almost incredible how taking this doctrine was,
partly because of its own purity, and partly for the
eminent piety of such persons as maintained it; so
that the Lord's day, especially in corporations, began
to be precisely kept, people becoming a law to them-
selves, forbearing such sports as yet by statute permitted ;
yea, many rejoicing at their own restraint herein. On
this day the stoutest fencer laid down the buckler ;
the most skilful archer unbent his bow, counting all
shooting beside the mark ; May-games and morris-dances
grew out of request ; and good reason that bells should
be silenced from gingling about men's legs, if their very
ringing in steeples were adjudged unlawful. Some of
them were ashamed of their former pleasures, like
children, which, grown bigger, blush themselves out of
their rattles and whistles. Others forbore them for fear
of their superiors; and many left them off out of a

politic

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215

politic compliance, lest otherwise they should be ac-
counted licentious.

Yet learned men were much divided in their judgments
about these Sabbatarian doctrines. Some embraced them
as ancient truths consonant to Scripture, long disused
and neglected, now seasonably revived for the increase
of piety. Others conceived them grounded on a wrong
bottom ; but, because they tended to the manifest ad-
vance of religion, it was pity to oppose them, seeing
none have just reason to complain, being deceived
into their own good. But a third sort flatly fell out
with these positions, as galling men's necks with a
Jewish yoke, against the liberty of Christians; that
Christ, as Lord of the sabbath, had removed the rigour
thereof, and allowed men lawful recreations; that this
doctrine put an unequal lustre on the Sunday on set
purpose to eclipse all other holy-days, to the derogation
of the authority of the church ; that this strict observance
was set up out of faction to be a character of difference,
to brand all for libertines who did not entertain it.

Ck. Hist. B. ix. S. viii. 20-21.

SalisbTiry Cathedral

The Buildings
The Cathedral of SaUsbury (dedicated to the blessed
Virgin) is paramount in this kind, wherein the doors
and chapels equal the months, the windows the days,
the pillars and pillarets of fusile marble (an ancient
art now shrewdly suspected to be lost), the hours of
the year; so that all Europe affords not such an almanac

of architecture.

Once

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(BOiee ^ori0 ani

Once walking in this church (whereof then I was
prebendary) I met a countryman wondering at the
structure thereof. 'I once,' said he to me, 'admired
that there could be a church that should have so many
pillars as there be hours in the year ; and now I admire
more, that there should be so many hours in the year as
I see pillars in this church.' wcrtkies: wuts. Buildings.

Salmon

A DAINTY and wholesome fish, and a double riddle
in Nature : first, for its invisible feeding, no man alive
having ever found any meat in the maw thereof.
Secondly, for its strange leaping (or flying rather), so
that some will have them termed salmons, & saliendo.
Being both bow and arrow, it will shoot itself out of
the water an incredible height and length. I might
add the admirable growth thereof, if true what is con-
fidently affirmed, that it increaseth from a spawn to a
full-grown fish within the compass of a year. Plenty
of these in this county, though not in such abundance
as in Scotland, where servants (they say) indent with
their masters, not to be fed therewith above thrice a

^^^'^* Id. : Hereford. Natural Commodities.

Salt

I BEHELD England as a long well-furnished table, and
account three principal salt-cellars set at a distance
thereon. Worcestershire, I fancy the trencher salt, both
because it is not so much in quantity (though very
considerable), and because it is whiter, finer, and heavier,
than any other. Cheshire, I conceive, deserveth to be

reputed

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217

reputed the grand salt-cellar, placed somewhat beneath
the middle ; whilst the third is the salt of Newcastle,
set far north, at the lower end of the table, for the
use of those who otherwise cannot conveniently reach
to the former. The usefulness of this not-duly-valued
blessing may be concluded from the Latin word salarium,
so usual in ancient and modern authors, which im-
porteth the entertainment or wages of soldiers, anciently
paid chiefly (if not only) in victuals, and taketh its name,
by a synecdoche, from sal, or salt, as of all things most
absolutely needful ; without which condiment nothing
can be wholesome nutriment.

Id.; Worcester. Natural Commodities.

The Good Schoolmaster

There is scarce any profession in the commonwealth
more necessary, which is so slightly performed. The
reasons whereof I conceive to be these: First, young
scholars make this caUing their refuge ; yea, perchance,
before they have taken any degree in the University, com-
mence schoolmasters in the country ; as if nothing else
were required to set up this profession, but only a rod and
a ferula. Secondly, others, who are able, use it only as
a passage to better preferment ; to patch the rents in their
present fortune, till they can provide a new one, and
betake themselves to some more gainful calling. Thirdly,
they are disheartened from doing their best, with the
miserable reward which in some places they receive,—
being masters to their children, and slaves to their
parents. Fourthly, being grown rich, they grow negligent ;

and

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and scorn to touch the school, but by the proxy of an usher.
But see how well our schoolmaster behaves himself.

His genius inclines him with delight to his profession.
— Some men had as lieve be school-boys as school-masters,
• — to be tied to the school, as Cooper's ' Dictionary ' and
Scapula's ' Lexicon ' are chained to the desk therein ;
and, though great scholars, and skilful in other arts, are
bunglers in this. But God of his goodness hath fitted
several men for several callings, that the necessity of
church and state, in all conditions, may be provided for.
So that he who beholds the fabric thereof may say :
' God hewed out this stone, and appointed it to lie in
this very place ; for it would fit none other so well, and
here it doth most excellent.' And thus God mouldeth
some for a schoolmaster's life ; undertaking it with desire
and delight, and discharging it with dexterity and happy
success.

He studieth his scholars' natures as carefully as they
their books. — And ranks their dispositions into several
forms. And though it may seem difficult for him in a great
school to descend to all particulars, yet experienced
schoolmasters may quickly make a grammar of boys'
natures, and reduce them all (saving some few exceptions)
to these general rules : —

1. Those that are ingenious and industrious. — The
conjunction of two such planets in a youth presage much
good unto him. To such a lad a frown may be a whip-
ping, and a whipping a death ; yea, where their master
whips them once, shame whips them all the week after.
Such natures he useth with all gentleness.

2. Those that are ingenious and idle. — These think,

with

Ouain^ Coutt0ef0

219

with the hare in the fable, that, running with snails, (so
they count the rest of their school-fellows), they shall
come soon enough to the post, though sleeping a good
while before their starting. O ! a good rod would finely
take them napping !

3. Those that are dull and diligent. — Wines, — the
stronger they be, the more lees they have when they are
new. Many boys are muddy-headed till they be clarified
with age ; and such afterwards prove the best. Bristol
diamonds are both bright, and squared, and pointed by
nature, and yet are soft and worthless ; whereas orient
ones, in India, are rough and rugged naturally. Hard,
rugged, and dull natures of youth acquit themselves
afterwards the jewels of the country ; and, therefore, their
dulness at first is to be borne with, if they be diligent.
That schoolmaster deserves to be beaten himself, who
beats nature in a boy for a fault. And I question
whether all the whipping in the world can make their
parts which are naturally sluggish, rise one minute before
the hour nature hath appointed.

4. Those that are invincibly dull and negligent also. —
Correction may reform the latter, not amend the former.
All the whetting in the world can never set a razor's edge
on that which has no steel in it. Such .boys he con-
signeth over to other professions. Shipwrights and
boat-makers will choose those crooked pieces of timber
which other carpenters refuse. Those may make excel-
lent merchants and mechanics who will not serve for
scholars.

He is able, diligent, and methodical in his teaching. —
Not leading them rather in a circle than forwards. He

minces

Thomas
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(Pi0e (TSOovbe anb

minces his precepts, for children to swallow ; hanging
clogs on the nimbleness of his own soul, that his scholars
may go along with him.

He is, and will be known to be, an absolute monarch
in his school. — If cockering mothers proffer him money,
to purchase their sons an exemption from his rod, (to live,
as it were, in a peculiar, out of their master's jurisdiction,)
with disdain he refuseth it, and scorns the late custom in
some places of commuting whipping into money, and
ransoming boys from the rod at a set price. If he hath
a stubborn youth, correction-proof, he debaseth not
his authority by contesting with him, but fairly (if he
can) puts him away, before his obstinacy hath infected
others.

He is moderate in inflicting deserved correction. —
Many a schoolmaster better answereth the name ttoiSo-
Tpi/3))s than iraiSayayos, rather ' tearing his scholars' flesh
with whipping, than giving them good education.' No
wonder if his scholars hate the Muses, being presented
unto them in the shapes of fiends and furies. . . .

To conclude : let this, amongst other motives, make
schoolmasters careful in their place, that the eminencies
of their scholars have commended the memories of their
schoolmasters to posterity, who, otherwise in obscurity,
had altogether been forgotten. Who had ever heard of
R. Bond, in Lancashire, but for the breeding of learned
Ascham his scholar ? or of Hartgrave, in Burnley school,
in the same county, but because he was the first [who]
did teach worthy Dr. Whitaker. Nor do I honour the
memory of Mulcaster for any thing so much as for his
scholar, that gulf of learning, bishop Andrews. This

made

Ouain^ €:oun0ef0

2:?I

made the Athenians, the day before the great feast of
Theseus their founder, to sacrifice a ram to the memory
of Conidas, his schoolmaster, that first instructed him.

Holy State, B. ii. C. xvL

Bad Latin o( the Schoolmen

Their Latin is generally barbarous, counting any thing
eloquent that is expressive;' going the nearest way to
speak their own notions, though sometimes trespassing
on grammar, abusing, if not breaking, Priscian's head
therein. Some impute this their bald and threadbare
language to a design that no vermin of equivocation
should be hid under the nap of their words; whilst
others ascribe it to their want of change, and their
poverty in learning, to procure better expressions.

Ck. Hist, B. Hi. Cent xiv. 25.

Scruples of Conscience

Some have sluices in their consciences, and can keep
them open, or shut them as occasion required.

Holy War, B, ii. C. xxviii.

Sea and Land Service compared

And surely, generally sea-fights are more bloody than
those on the land, especially since guns came up, whose
shot betwixt wind and water (like those wounds so often
mentioned in the scripture under the fifth rib), is
commonly observed mortal Yea, far harder it is for
a ship, when arrested and engaged in a battle, to clear
itself, than for soldiers by land to save themselves by

flight

Thomas
FviUer

^t0e (P?o»:&0 (xnb

flight. Here neither his own two nor his horse's four
legs can bestead any ; but like accidents they must perish
with their subjects, and sink with their ship.

And then why is a sea victory less honour, being more
danger, than one achieved by land ? Is it because sea-
service is not so general, nor so full of varieties, and
the mysteries thereof sooner learned? Or because in
seafights fortune may seem to be a deeper sharer, and
valour not so much interested? Whatsoever it is, the
laurel purchased on land hath a more lively verdure than
that which is got at sea. hcI^ War, b. w. c. xxiv.

The Sea-captain

He daily sees, and duly considers, God's wonders in
the deep. — Tell me, ye naturalists. Who sounded the
first march and retreat to the tide, 'Hither shalt thou
come, and no further'? Why doth not the water
recover his right over the earth, being higher in nature ?
Whence came the salt, and who first boiled it, which
made so much brine? When the winds are not only
wild in a storm, but even stark-mad in an hurricane,
who is it that restores them again to their wits, and
brings them asleep in a calm ? Who made the mighty
whales, which swim in a sea of water, and have a sea
of oil swimming in them? Who first taught the water
to imitate the creatures on land ? so that the sea is the
stable of horse-fishes, the stall of kine-fishes, the sty of
hog-fishes, the kennel of dog-fishes, and, in all things,
the sea the ape of the land ! Whence grows the amber-
gris in the sea ? which is not so hard to find where it is,
as to know what it is. Was not God the first shipwright ?

and

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and all vessels on the water descended from the loins (or
ribs rather) of Noah's ^rk; or else who durst be so bold,
with a few crooked boards nailed together, a stick
standing upright, and a rag tied to it, to adventure into
the ocean ? What loadstone first touched the loadstone ?
Or how first fell it in love with the North, rather
affecting that cold climate than the pleasant East, or
fruitful South, or West? How comes that stone to
know more than men, and find the way to the land in a
mist ? In most of these, men take sanctuary at occulta
qualitas ; and complain that the room is dark, when
their eyes are blind. Indeed, they are God's wonders ;
and that seaman the greatest wonder of all for his
blockishness, who, seeing them daily, neither takes
notice of them, admires at them, nor is thankful for

them. Holy state, B. ii. C. xxi. 8.

Secrecy

Secrecy and Celerity are the two wheels of great

actions.

Id. B. V. C. ix.

Security

Security is the mother of danger and the grand
mother of destruction. id. b. v. c. xviii. i.

Severity

Severity hot in the 4th degree, is little better than
poison and becometh cruelty itself.

Holy War, B. i. C. xxiv.

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224

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Similes

Indeed, reasons are the pillars of the fabric of a
sermon : but similitudes are the windows which give the

best lights. ^«,/j, SMe, B. U. C. ix. II.

Simony

Reader, pardon a digression. I am confident there
is one, and but one, sin frequent in the former age, both
with clergy and laity, which in our days our land is not
guilty of, and may find many compurgators of her
innocence therein ; I mean the sin of simony : seeing
none in our age will give anything for church-livings ;
partly because the persons presented thereunto have no
assurance to keep them, partly because of the uncertainty
of tithes for their maintenance. But whether this our
age hath not added in sacrilege what it wanteth in
simony, is above my place to discuss, and more above

my power to decide. Worthies.- Oxfordshire. Prelates.

Slow and Sure

God's work must not be done lazily, but leisurely :
haste maketh waste in this kind. In reformations of
great importance, the violent driving in of the nail will
either break the head, or bow the point thereof, or rive
and split that which should be fastened therewith.

That may insensibly be screwed which cannot
suddenly be knocked into people. Fair and softly goeth
far ; but, alas ! we have too many fiery spirits, who, with
Jehu, drive on so furiously they will overturn all in

church

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church and state, if their fierceness be not seasonably
retrenched.

Good Thoughts: Mixt Contempl. on Better Times, P. 11. 34.

Small Beginnings

Such who are ashamed of contemptible beginnings
will never arrive at considerable endings. Yea, the
greatest giant was (though never a dwarf) once an in-
fant ; and the longest line commenced from a little point

at the first. Worthies : Cmnierland. The Farewell.

Blessings of Good Society

How many general benefits do the very tares enjoy,
because inseparably mingled with the wheat in the field

of this world !

Pisgah Sight, B. iv. C. ii. 21.

Someone else's Fault

Should God scourge this land with famine, or any
other general punishment, the courtiers would impute
the cause thereof to the covetousness of the citizens;
the citizens to the prodigality of the courtiers : the rich
to the unthankfulness, discontented murmuring of the
poor ; the poor to the hard-heartedness of the rich : the
laity to the clergy's want of preaching ; the clergy to the
laity's want of practising. Every one would post the
fault from himself, and be inquisitive, with these mar-
iners, ' for whose fault this evil was upon ' them.

Notes oil Jotiah, i. 7.

Speed's Map of Carnarvon

The map of this county (as also of Denby and
Flintshire) in Mr. Speed is not divided (as other shires

Q in

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in England and Wales) with pricks into their several
hundreds, which would have much conduced to the
completing thereof, whereof he rendereth this reason,
That he could not procure the same (though promised
him) out of the sheriffs books ; fearing lest the riches of
their shire should be further sought into by revealing
such particulars. He addeth moreover, 'This I have
observed in all my survey, that where least is to be had
the greatest fears' are possessed.' I would advise these
counties hereafter to deny no small civility to a painful
author, holding a pen in his hand, for fear a drop of his
ink fall upon them ; for, though juice of lemon will fetch
such spots out of linen, when once printed in a book
they are not so easily got out, but remain to posterity.

Worthies: Carnarvon. Farewell.

Having done all — Stand

He that intends to meet with one in a great fair, and
knows not where he is, may sooner iind him by standing
still in some principal place there, than by traversing it
up and down. Take thy stand on some good ground in
religion, and keep thy station in a fixed posture, never
hunting after the times to follow them ; and, a hundred
to one, they will come to thee once in thy life-time.

Holy state, B. ii!. C. xix. 12.

Standing Still

A College in Cambridge, much beautified with ad-
ditional buildings, sent a messenger to a Doctor, no less
ingenious than bountiful, who had been a great, and
promised to be a greater, benefactor unto them, request-
ing

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227

ing him to remember them, ' or else their College must
even stand stiil,' meaning they must desist from going
farther in their intended fabric. To whom the Doctor
answered, 'May your College, and all the Colleges in
both Universities, stand still ! ' In the charitable
meaning whereof all good men will concur. . . .

History ofCambridge^ S. ix. 49.

Storks

Some have confidently reported, that storks will not
live, save in a repubhc; who may with as much truth
affirm, that an eagle, the sovereign of birds, will not
breed in a commonwealth. Not to say that storks were
named in the monarchy of Adam, preserved in the ark
in the monarchy of Noah. Jeremiah, who lived in the
kingdom of Judah, upbraided the ignorance of the
people therein — 'Yea, the stork in the heaven knoweth
her appointed times' (Jer. viii. 7). Which birds, had
they known their times, and the Jews not known the
birds, as frequent and familiar with them, both the
prophet's illustration had been obscure, and exprobration
improper for his present purpose.

Pisgdh Sighti B. iii. C. xiv. 2g.

Surgeons

Thus, wishing unto them the three requisites for their
practice, an eagle's eye, a lady's hand, and a lion's heart,
I leave them, and proceed. Worthies, chap. ix.

Suspicion

Generally, suspiciousness is as great an enemy to
wisdom, as too much credulity ; it doing oftentimes as
Q 2 hurtful

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hurtful wrong to friends, as the other doth receive
wrongful hurt from dissemblers. jf^ij, ivar, b. .. c. xU.

Tall Men

Often the cockloft is empty in those whom nature

Holy State, B. v. C. xviii. 19.

hath built many stories high.

Power of Teaching

He had an admirable faculty in teaching youth ; for
every boy can teach a man, whereas he must be a man
who can teach a boy. It is easy to inform them who
are able to understand ; but it must be a master-piece of
industry and discretion to descend to the capacity of

children. worthies: Vorks. Writers.

The Templars

There is scarce a harder question in later history
than this : whether the Templars justly or unjustly were
condemned to suffer. On the one side it is dangerous
to affirm they were innocent, because condemned by the
pope, infallible in matters of such consequence. This
bugbear affrighteth many, and maketh their hands shake
when they write hereof. If they should say the
Templars were burned wrongfully, they may be fetched
over the coals themselves for charging his holiness so
deeply ; yea, hereby they bring so much innocent blood
on the pope's head as is enough to drown him ; some
therefore in this matter know little, and dare speak less,
for fear of afterclaps. Secondly, some who suspect that
one eye of the church may be dim, yet hold that both

the

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the eyes, the pope and general council together, cannot

be deceived.

Holy War, B. v. C. ii.

Tenterden Steeple

' Tenterden's steeple is the cause of the breach in Goodwin Sands.'
It is used commonly in derision of such who, being
demanded to render a reason of some important accident,
assign 'non causam pro causS,' or a ridiculous and
improbable cause thereof. And hereon a story depends.
When the vicinage in Kent met to consult about the
inundation of Goodwin Sands, and what might be the
cause thereof, an old man imputed it to the building
of Tenterden steeple in this county ; ' for those sands,'
said he, 'were firm lands before that steeple was built,
which ever since were overflown with sea-water.' Here-
upon all heartily laughed at his unlogical reason, making
that the effect in Nature, which was only the consequent
in time ; not flowing from, . but following after, the
building of that steeple.

But one story is good till another is heard. Though
this be all whereon this proverb is generally grounded, I
met since with a supplement thereunto. It is this.
Time out of mind money was constantly collected out of
this county to fence the east banks thereof against the
eruption of the seas ; and such sums were deposited in
the hands of the bishop of Rochester. But, because the
sea had been very quiet for many years, without any
encroachings, the bishop commuted that money to the
building of a steeple, and endowing of a church, in
Tenterden. By this diversion of the collection for the
maintenance of the banks, the sea afterwards brake in

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upon Goodwin Sands. And now the old man had told
a rational tale, had he found but the due favour to finish
it. And thus, sometimes, that is causelessly accounted
ignorance in the speaker, which is nothing but im-
patience in the auditors, unwilling to attend the end of

the discourse. Worthies: Kent. Proverbs.

Text and Context stand together

It is an act as easy as unjust, for one to assault a
naked sentence, as it stands by itself, disarmed of the
assistance of the coherence before and after it. All
sentences (except they be entire and independent) have
a double strength in them, one inherent, the other
relative, and the latter sometimes greater than the former ;
when what in a sentence is doubtful, is explained ;
difficult, expounded ; defective, supplied ; yea, seemingly
false, rendered really true by the connexion.

We read in the Life of St. Edward, that Harold, cup-
bearer to the king, chanced to stumble with the one foot,
that he almost kissed the ground ; but with the other leg
he recovered himself : whereat his father Godwin, earl of
Kent, (then dining with the king,) said, 'Now one
brother doth help another ; ' to whom the king replied,
' And so might my brother have helped me, if it had so
pleased you.'

Many times when one sentence in my book hath had
a casual slip, the next to it, out of fraternal kindness,
would have held it up, (in the apprehension of the
reader,) from falling into any great error, had the
Animadvertor so pleased; who uncharitably cutteth it

off

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231

off from such support, so that one brother cannot help
another ; whilst he representeth mangled and maimed
passages, to the disadvantage of the sense and writer
thereof Thus one may prove atheism out of scripture
itself: 'There is no God.' But what went before?
' The fool hath said in his heart.'

The Appeal of Injured Innocence, Pt. i. C. vi.

Theory and Practice

Many who in England have learned the French
tongue, and afterwards have gone over into France, have
found themselves both deaf and dumb in effect, neither
hearing to understand, nor speaking to be understood :
they, in Uke manner, who frame to themselves in their
studies a model of leading an army, find it as full of
errors as rules, when it cometh to be applied; and a
measure of war taken by book falleth out either too long
or too short, when brought into the field to be used.

I have heard a story of a great mapmonger, who
undertook to travel over England by help of his maps,
without asking the least direction of any he hiet. Long
he had not ridden but he met with a non plus ultra, a
deep unpassable gullet of water, without bridge, ford, or
ferry. This water was as unknown to his Camden's or
Speed's maps, as to himself; because it was neither body
nor branch of any constant river or brook (such as only
are visible in maps), but an extempore water, flowing
from the snow which melted on hills. Worse unex-
pected accidents surprise those who conceive themselves
to have conned all martial maxims out of authors, and
warrant their skill in war against all events, out of their

jrreat

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great reading; when on the sudden some unwonted
occurrent taketh them unprovided, standing amazed till
destruction seizeth on them. ffoiy War, b. v. c. xiv.

Time-serving

He is a good time-server that is pliant to the times in
matters of mere indifferency. — To blame are they whose
minds may seem to be made of one entire bone, without
any joints. They cannot bend at all, but stand as stiffly
in things of pure indifferency, as in matters of absolute

necessity. Holy state, B. iii. C. xix. 4.

Of all the extent of time, only the instant is that
which we can call ' ours.' ''^''"■

Tobacco Pipes

The best for shape and colour (as curiously sized) are
made at Amesbury in this county. They may be called
chimneys portable in pockets, the one end being the
hearth, the other the tunnel thereof. Indeed, at the first
bringing over of tobacco, pipes were made of silver and
other metals; which, though free from breaking, were
found inconvenient, as soon fouled, and hardly cleansed.

These clay pipes are burnt in a furnace for some
fifteen hours, on the self-same token, that if taken out
half an hour before that time, they are found little altered
from the condition wherein they were when first put in.
It seems all that time the fire is working itself to the
height, and doth its work very soon when attained to

perfection.

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233

perfection. Gauntlet-pipes, which have that mark on
their heel, are the best ; and hereon a story doth depend.
One of that trade observing such pipes most saleable,
set the gauntlet on those of his own making, though
inferior in goodness to the other. Now the workman
who first gave the gauntlet sued the other, upon the
statute which makes it penal for any to set another's
mark on any merchantable commodities. The defendant
being likely to be cast (as whose counsel could plead
little in his behalf) craved leave to speak a word for
himself; which was granted. He denied that he ever
set another man's mark ; ' for the thumb of his gauntlet
stands one way, mine another; and the same hand
given dexter or sinister in heraldry is a sufficient
difference.' Hereby he escaped; though surely such
who bought his pipes never took notice of that criticism,
or consulted which way the thumb of his gauntlet

respected. Worthies; Wilts.

Tombs

Tombs are the clothes of the dead. A grave is but
a plain suit, and a rich monument is one embroidered.
Most moderate men have been careful for the decent
interment of their corpse. Few of the fond mind of
Arbogastus, an Irish saint, and bishop of Spires in Ger-
many, who would be buried near the gallows, in imitation
of our Saviour, whose grave was in Mount Calvary,
near the place of execution.

.Holy State, B. iii. C. xiv.

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Translators

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Translators

Indeed some decry all translators as interlopers,
spoiling the trade of learning, which should be driven
amongst scholars alone. Such also allege, that the best
translations are works rather of industry than judgment,
and (in easy authors) of faithfulness rather than industry ;
that many be but bunglers, forcing the meaning of the
authors they translate, 'picking the lock when they
cannot open it.'

But their opinion presents too much of envy, that
such gentlemen who cannot repair to the fountain should
be debarred access to the stream. Besides, it is unjust
to charge all with the faults of some ; and a distinction
must be made amongst translators, betwixt coblers and
workmen, and our Holland^ had the true knack of

translating. worthies: Warwick. Writers.

Treason

Treason will run up the steepest ascent where valour
itself can scarce creep. H„iy war. b. ii. c. 42.

Trifles

Yea, a toy may be real, and a point may be essential
in the sense of some sentences, and worse to be spared
than some whole letter.

Holy State, B. iv. C. xvi. 12.

' Philemon Holland, M.D., of Coventry.

True

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True Value

In London-exchange, one shall over-buy wares who
gives half the price at first demanded, so he that be-
lieveth the moiety of fame may believe too much. . . .

Yet virtues confessed by their foes, and vices acknow-
ledged by their friends, are commonly true.

Holy state, B. iv. C. v. 10, 11.

Are Turks or Tartars more easily convertible
to Christianity?

It is a pretty quaere, whether Turks or Tartars be
easier convertible to the Christian religion : I mean
ex parte objecti ; for otherwise all things are equally easy
to an infinite agent. Now it seemeth the Tartars are
reducible with most facility to our religion; for pure
Paganism and native infidelity, like white cloth, will take
the tincture of Christianity; whereas the Turks are
soiled and stained with the irreligious religion of Maho-
metanism, which first with much pains must be scoured
out of them. And though they may seem to be in some
forwardness to conversion, because they have a kind of
knowledge and reverence of Christ, yet the best joint of
their belief must be broken before it can be well set,
and every drop of their present religion pumped out
before true faith be infused into them. And experience,
the most competent witness herein, hath proved, that
afterwards more Tartars, both private men and princes,
than Turks of either condition, have embraced Chris-
tianity. Holy War, B. iv. C. a.

The

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The Turkish Empire

But the lion is not so fierce as he is painted, nor this
empire so formidable as fame giveth it out. The Turk's
head is less than his turban, and his turban less than it
seemeth ; swelling without, hollow within. If more seri-
ously it be considered, this state cannot be strong, which
is a pure and absolute tyranny. His subjects under him
have nothing certain but this, that they have nothing
certain ; and may thank the grand signior for giving
them whatsoever he taketh not away from them. Their
goods they hold by permission, not propriety ; not sure
that either they or theirs shall reap what they sow, or
eat what they reap; and hereupon husbandry is wholly
neglected ; for the ploughman (as well as the ground he
plougheth) will be soon out of heart, if not maintained
and (as I may say) composted with hopes to receive
benefit by his labours. Here great officers, if they love
themselves, must labour not to be beloved; for popu-
larity is high treason ; and generally wealth is a sin to
be expiated by death. In a word, it is a cruel tyranny,
bathed in the blood of their emperors upon every
succession ; a heap of vassals and slaves ; no nobles
(except for time being, by office) no gentlemen, no free-
men, no inheritance of land, no stirp or ancient families ;
a nation without any morality, arts, and sciences, that
can measure an acre of land or hour of a day.

ffoly War, B. v. C. xxx.

Twilight

Should our eyes be instantly posted out of midnight
into noon-day, certainly we should be blinded with the

suddenness

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237

suddenness and excellency of the lustre thereof. Nature
therefore hath wisely provided the twilight, as a bridge,
by degrees to pass us from darkness to light.

Ch, Hist. B. V. S. iv, 33.

Unhappiness no Proof of Unworthiness

All persons unhappy must not presently be accounted
unworthy, especially in distracted times. Have you not
heard of that humorous waterman on the Thames, who
would carry none in his boat save such who would go
along with the tide, till, by feeding his humour, he had
almost starved himself for want of employment ?

Worthies^ Ch. xxv^

Various Sins, various Punishments

God inilicteth not the same punishment for all, but
hath variety of correction. In his quiver some arrows
are blunt, some sharp, and of these he draws some half
way, some to the head. And the reason is, because
there are divers degrees of men's sins : some sin out of
ignorance, others out of knowledge ; some out of in-
firmity, others of presumption ; some once, others often ;
some at the seducing of others, others seduce others.
God therefore doth not like the unskilful empirics^ who
prescribe the same quantity of the same recipe at all
times, to all ages, tempers and diseases : but wisely he
varieth his physic, few stripes to those that knew not his
will, and many stripes for them who knew his will and
did it not. Sometimes he shooteth halfe canon, weak-
ness; sometimes full canon, sickness; sometimes mur-
dering pieces, death itself.

Coll. Serm, foseph's Party-coloured Coat^ xv. 30.

The

Thomas
Fuller

,>«^

(P^ie^ (^ovi« mb

Tlio Vliitatlons of Mnn^tnlou CoUoro

Wiwr sl\iill I sju-iik of K-;u'iu-(l 1 amviuo lluiwpUivv,
iwinl'ul John t'\>\, stutlioiis M\i-I>a>-I Konui.v^oi, s\vi-i'(
u,itinv»l John Molins, i>n'l\diM(on ot raul's, AilUm S;uil.
IVloi- Morviu, IIiikIi Kiikc, aiul I like ruiitii-, ilcai
hirlhivM in ("hrist, ntl nl this tinu- lon-od to loiwikv" Iht'ii
colU'go? SothiU lUon Ma,mlalt-n wopt iuilood Tor tl\i- Ioivn
of so \>\anv woiiUics. All Ihis o\liomilv WUK i-\i'i'\ili'tl
by Ihi-so visilors, not as vet omiiowoinl liv law, ihr
stalnlcs of kiiij; I'alwanl slandinp, hithoilo uiuopoali'il
Uut soni(> arc so dosivons lo \Y0i'sl\ip the iismj>, huu, lUa(,
to luaki- sini> work, Ihi'v will adoio Iho (lawuinf> day >
ami iwiiny of tin- 0\lonl srholais lhou(.',l\l rioU-psis tl>t'
lu'sl lij.\uro in their (Aiammai lo loiosro what tl\<' iinoiai
would havi- doui', and lo inf.',raliiilc thcinsi'lvcs hv ante
daliiig the dnin^; Ihoii-of. ch. iii>i\ U. \lil. s, I, «,

An llnn\usk'nl Vtilco

l,(n<ii, my voiro hy nalini- is harsh nnd in\lnn('alil(',
and it is yaiu lo lavish any aii lo liclliM' it, ('an my
sini-'jnf; of psalms hv plrasinn to tliy I'ais, whiih is
iinpli'asant lo n\y own? yt'l Ihonj-'Ji 1 cannot chant witlt
the i\i(.',hlin)-',alc, or chirp with Ihc lilackliiid, I had iiitlu'i
challcf witli Ihc swallow, yea, lalhcr cioak with Ihc lavrn,
than he allonelher silent. I lads! thiai p.iyen me a hellei
voice, 1 would have piaised Ihee with a lietter voice,
Now what my musi<' wantM in sweetness let it have in
sense, sii\f.',in|-\ piaiseH with mideistandinf.\. \'ca, 1 ,oi'd,
create in me a new hearl (therein lo make melody), and
I will he contented with my old voice until in Ihy due

liuu-

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time, being lulmiiunl into the <:lii)ir of heaven, I have
Mfiothcr, nuiru liiirnioniuuH licHldwcd upon niu.

Gmd 'I'liiiiinliti. I'trional Mti/lldtlmi, v.

WeedR

iMriiHHiiiMc ii is that all nhould be good lu-'il)8 which
Krow in greul niinlenN. pugah sight, ii, II, ( ■. »ii. :i.

The Good Wife

Hick dolheH iin; nitliLT <i)nii;ly Ihrin costly, inul Hhe
nuil<('H plain riolli Ui lie velvet ljy her liiuulHonic wearing
il, -She is none of (uir diiinly dunieH, who love to iippeiir
In variety of units every diiy new, as if n good gown, lii<e
a Hlratngeni in war, were lo he iwed l)ul onee. Hut our
good wife Hi'lH n|) a Hiiil according to llie Iteel of iier
hUHl)and'H cHliilc ; inul if of IiIkIi parenlage, she dotli not
NO renienilier wliat Hlie was by birth^ that she forgelH what
she is by maU/t. iii^iy s'lmt, u, I, <'. I, Iv,

Willows

A HAn tree, whereof such who liave lost tlieir love make
Iheir mourning KinlandH ; and we know what exiicH luing
lip llieir liarpH upon hiicIi doleful supporters. The twigs
liereof me phywic, lo drive out llie folly of children.
This iree delighlelli in inoisl place's, and is triumphant
in llie I Hie of Uly, wliere the roolH strengthen their banks,
and lop iiffonlH fuel for their fire. Il growelh incredibly
liiHl ! it being a byword in this cuunly, 'that the profit

by

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by willows will buy the owner a horse, before that by
other trees will pay for his saddle.'

Worthies: CaTttbr. Natural Commodities.

Wiltshire

A PLEASANT county, and of great variety. I have
heard a wise man say, that an ox left to himself would,
of all England, choose to live in the north, a sheep in
the south part hereof, and a man in the middle betwixt
both, as partaking of the pleasure of the plain, and the
wealth of the deep country. Worthies: wnts.

Windows

Light God's eldest daughter! is a principal beauty
in a building. — Yet it shines not alike from all parts of
heaven. An east window welcomes the infant beams of
the sun, before they are of strength to do any harm, and
is offensive to none but a sluggard. A south window
in summer is a chimney with a fire in it, and needs the
screen of a curtain. In a west window in summer-time,
towards night, the sun grows low and over-familiar, with
more light than delight. A north window is best for
butteries and cellars, where the beer will be sour for the
sun's smiling on it. Thorough lights are best for rooms
of entertainment, and windows on one side for dor-
mitories.

Holy StatCy B. iii. C. vii.

Wit

Any man may be witty in a biting way ; and those
who have the dullest brains have commonly the sharpest

teeth

Quaint C^ouneePo

241

teeth to that purpose. But such carnal mirth, whilst it
tickleth the flesh, doth wound the soul.

Ap^. Inj. Inn. P. ii. B. ix. 180.

A Witch

At the first she is only ignorant, and very malicious. —
She hath usually a bad face, and a worse tongue, given
to railing and cursing, as if constantly bred on Mount
Ebal; yet speaking, perchance, worse than she means,
though meaning worse than she should. And as the
harmless yapping of a cursed cur may stir up a fierce
mastiff to the worrying of sheep ; so, on her cursing, the
devil may take occasion by God's permission to do
mischief, without her knowledge, and perchance against

her will. Holy state, B. v. C. 3.

Woman, and so, weak

Of the two sexes the woman is the weaker ; of women,
old women are most feeble ; of old women, widows most
woful ; of widows, those that are poor, their plight most
pitiful ; of poor widows, those that want children, their
case most doleful ; of widows that want children, those
that once had them and after lost them, their estate
most desolate j of widows that have had children, those
that are strangers in a foreign country, their condition
most comfortless. Ruth, 1-5.

A Woman's reputation

There is a tree in Mexicana which is so exceedingly
tender, that a man cannot touch any of his branches,

R but

Thomas
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242

(Wi0^ (Wovb0 an6

Thomas
Fuller

but it withers presently. A lady's credit is of equal
niceness ; a small touch may wound and kill it ; which
makes her very cautious what company she keeps. The
Latin tongue seems somewhat injurious to the feminine
sex; for whereas therein amicus is 'a friend,' arnica
always signifies 'a sweetheart'; as if their sex, in
reference to men, were not capable of any other kind of
familiar friendship, but in way to marriage.

Holy State, B. iv. C. xiii. 12.

Wonder

Well, let our admiration be given to God, seeing
deliberate wondering (when the soul is not suddenly
surprised) being raised up to an height is part of
adoration, and cannot be given to any creature without
some sacrilege. Such wondering consists of reverence
and ignorance, which best becometh even the wisest of
men, in their searches after God his ways. As for that
unkind wondering, which melts not man's heart like wax
into the praising of God, but clay-like hardeneth it unto
stupefaction, 'Behold, ye despisers, and wonder, and
perish.' God keep all good men from being guilty
thereof !

Worthies, Chap. ii.

Worcester

Be it here remembered, that the see of Worcester had
nine bishops successively ; whereof the four first, (being
all Italians,) none of them lived there; the five last,
(Latimer, Bell, Heath, Hooper, Pate,) none of them
died there, as either resigning, removed, or deprived ;

and

Ouainf £oun0ef0

243

and all five were alive together in the reign of Queen

^^"■y- * Ch. Hist. B. ix. S. i. 16.

Work keeps men alive

Lord, I read of the two witnesses, And when they
shall have finished their testimony, the beast that
ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war
against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them.
They could not be killed whilst they were doing, but
when they had done their work ; during their employ-
ment they were invincible. No better armour against
the darts of death than to be busied in thy service.
Why art thou so heavy, O my soul ? No malice of man
can antedate my end in a minute, whilst my Maker hath
any work for me to do. And when all my daily task is
ended, why should I grudge then to go to bed ?

Good Thoughts in Bad Times : Scrip. Obs. 10. ■

Wotton under Weaver

' Where God came never.'

It is time that this old profane proverb should die in
men's mouths for ever. I confess, in common discourse,
God is said to come to what he doth approve; to send
to what he only permits ; and neither to go nor send to
what he doth dislike and forbid. But this distinction, if
granted, will help nothing to the defending of this profane
proverb, which it seems took its wicked original from the
situation of Wotton, so covered with hills from the hght
of the sun, a dismal place, as report representeth it.
But were there a place indeed where God came never,
how many years' purchase would guilty consciences give
R 2 for

Thomas
Fuller

244

(^iee (XOot50 anb

for a small abode therein, thereby to escape Divine

justice for their offences ! worthies: Stafford. -Proverbs.

Writing and Living

How easy is pen and paper piety for one to write
religiously ! I will not say it costeth nothing, but it is far
cheaper to work one's head than one's heart to goodness.
Some, perchance, may guess me to be good by my
writings, and so I shall deceive my reader. But if I do
not desire to be good, I most of aU deceive myself. I
can make a hundred meditations sooner than subdue the
least sin in my soul. Yea, I was once in the mind never
to write more ; for fear lest my writings at the last day
prove records against me. And yet why should I not
write ? that by reading my own book, the disproportion
betwixt my lines and my life, may make me blush myself
(if not into goodness) into less badness than I would do
otherwise. That so my writings may condemn me, and
make me to condemn myself, that so God may be moved

to acquit me. Good Thoughts in Bad Times: Mixt Contemp. 25.

The Good Yeoman

The good yeoman is a gentleman in ore, whom the
next age may see refined ; and is the wax capable of a
genteel [gentle] impression, when the prince shall stamp
it. Wise Solon (who accounted Tellus the Athenian the
most happy man, for living privately on his own lands)
would surely have pronounced the English yeomanry
' a fortunate condition,' living in the temperate zone
betwixt greatness and want ; an estate of people almost
peculiar to England. France and Italy are like a die,

which

Ouain^ Coun0ef0

245

which hath no points between cinque and ace, — nobihty
and peasantry. Their walls, though high, must needs be
hollow, wanting filling-stones. noiy state, b. h. c. xviii.

Zacharias

Hard by Emmaus, even at this day, are shown the
ruins of Zacharias' house, where John the Baptist was
born, being the voice of a crier (Mat. iii.) begotten of
a dumb father. This was that Zacharias who would
not believe God without giving him a sign, and was
punished that men could not understand him, without
making of signs. pisgah sight, b. ii. c. xiv. 26.

Thomas
Fuller

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